.- 


JOURNAL 


A    MINISTER    OF   THE    GOSPEL 

IN   THE   SOCIETY   OF  FRIENDS. 


PHILADELPHIA: 
WM.  H.  PILE'S  SONS,  PRINTERS,  422  WALNUT  STREET. 

1892. 


PREFflCE. 


Believing  that  the  account  of  the  life,  exercises,  and  religious 
labors,  of  my  beloved  cousin,  Ann  Branson,  as  set  forth  in  the  follow- 
ing pages,  is  the  best  memorial  that  could  be  prepared  concerning 
her;  yet  I  thought  I  might  say  in  reference  to  myself,  that  she 
never  daubed  me  with  "untempered  mortar" — she  never  cried 
"  Peace,  peace,  when  there  is  no  peace."  She  never  "  sewed  pillows 
to  my  arm  holes,"  to  make  me  rest  more  easy  in  my  sins.  There  was 
no  compromising  the  Truth  with  her.  When  it  was  required  of  her, 
she  could  say,  as  Nathan  said  to  David,  "  Thou  art  the  man."  The  en- 
couragement given  me,  was  of  this  peculiar  order,  viz  :  "  Do  no  more 
nor  less  than  the  Master  requires."  Thus  showing  the  Fountain  whence 
she  received  her  own  supplies.  An  upright  pillar  has  been  removed 
from  the  Church ;  and  I,  in  particular,  have  lost  an  endeared  and 
choice  counsellor.  And  my  feeble  petition  has  been  and  is — Help 
O  Lord,  that  I  may  be  prepared  for  the  like  happy  end,  which  I 
believe  she  experienced.  Some  of  the  language  of  Thomas  Ellwood 
concerning  George  Fox,  seems  so  applicable  to  her,  that  I  will  close 
this  short  testimony  with  some  quotations.  [She]  "  was  valiant  for 
the  Truth,  bold  in  asserting  it,  unwearied  in  laboring  in  it,  steady  in 
her  testimony  to  it,  she  was  richly  endued  with  heavenly  wisdom, 
quick  in  discerning,  sound  in  judgment,  a  lover  of  righteousness,  an 
encourager  of  virtue,  justice,  temperance,  meekness,  purity,  chastity, 
modesty,  humility,  charity  and  self-denial  in  all,  both  by  word  and 
example.  She  was  courteous  in  conversation,  weighty  in  communi- 
cation, instructive  in  discourse,  free  from  affectation  in  speech  or 
carriage.  A  severe  reprover  of  hard  and  obstinate  sinners,  a  mild  and 
gentle  admonisher  of  such  as  were  tender  and  sensible  of  their  fail- 
ings: not  apt  to  resent  personal  wrongs,  easy  to  forgive  injuries; 
but  zealously  earnest,  where  the  honor  of  God,  the  prosperity  of 
Truth,  and  the  peace  of  the  Church  were  concerned. 

She  lived  and  died  the  servant  of  the  Lord." 

ASA  BRANSON. 


At  a  Meeting  for  Sufferings  of  Ohio  Yearly  Meeting 
of  Friends,  held  at  Stillwater,  near  Barnesville,  Ohio, 
Fifth  Month  31st,  1892. 

The  Committee  continued  in  care  of  the  writings  of  Ann  Branson, 
report  the  service  completed,   and  the  Meeting  now  decides  to 
publish  them,  with  a  testimony  concerning  her,  by  Asa  Branson. 
Extracted  from  the  Minutes. 

JOHN  W.  SMITH,  Clerk. 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER   I. 

Her  birth  and  childhood — Some  account  of  her  parents  and 
other  members  of  the  family  —  Apostacy  of  Elisha  Batesj 
and  her  exercises  concerning  it — Thomas  Shillitoe's  testi- 
mony concerning  J.  J.  Gurney's  doctrines — The  Philadelphia 
appeal — Events  of  her  early  womanhood' — Her  disobedience 
and  repentance,  and  forgiveness  therefor — Her  bed  of  sick- 
ness, and  first  sermon — Her  subsequent  recovery,  .  .  9 

CHAPTER    II. 

Commencement  of  her  diary  entries — First  poetry — Death  of 
her  mother — A  religious  visit  to  Salem  in  company  with  her 
father — A  religious  visit  to  meetings  in  Indiana — Visit  to  a 
neighboring  Monthly  Meeting, 32 

CHAPTER    III. 

Prevalence  of  erysipelas  fever — Death  of  her  father — Exercises 
in  her  own  meeting,  and  on  behalf  of  individuals  about  home 
— Starvation  in  Ireland — A  religious  visit  in  her  own  Quar- 
terly Meeting — The  beginning  of  the  troubles  of  Gurneyisnij^  54 

V 

CHAPTER    IV. 

Visits  families  about  home — Great  exercises  of  mind — Visit  to 
a  sick  neighbor — Exercises  continued,  and  the  spring  of  the 
ministry  in  great  measure  closed  up  —  A  visit  to  Miriam 
Ellis,  on  her  death-bed  —  The  funeral  of  Miriam  Ellis  — 
Her  labors  and  concern  relative  to  California  gold-hunting,  77 

CHAPTER    V. 

Exercises  in  her  own  Select  Meeting  and  the  Quarterly  Meet- 
ing— Asa  Branson's  first  appearance  in  the  ministiy — A  re- 


VI  CONTENTS. 

PAGE. 

ligious  visit  to  the  meetings  composing  Salem  and  Spring- 
field Quarters — A  visit  to  a  dying  man  after  her  return — 
Had  to  go  back  to  Salem  and  thereaway,  to  finish  the  re- 
quired service, 101 

CHAPTER    VI. 

A  religious  visit  to  Pennsville  Quarter  and  its  branches,  and 
many  families — Her  testimony  against  music — A  religious 
visit  to  Stillwater  Quarter  and  its  branches,  and  some  fami- 
lies, accompanied  by  close  exercises — Visits  meetings  about 
home,  and  appoints  some  meetings  amongst  non-members — 
Visited  families  at  Guernsey — Again  visited  Stillwater  — 
and  also  performed  religious  service  within  the  limits  of 
Short  Creek  Monthly  Meeting  —  Labor  with  Laban  Mit- 
chell against  his  going  to  the  army  —  And  a  notice  of  his 
death  soon  after  —  Labor  and  appointment  of  meetings  at 
Guernsey, 133 

CHAPTER    VII. 

Appointment  of  a  meeting  at  Georgetown,  and  other  service  in 
that  vicinity — A  pointed  testimony  at  Micajah  Johnson's — 
Beginning  of  the  Civil  War,  and  her  exercises  concerning  it 
— Exercises  and  service  about  Harrisville  and  Mt.  Pleasant — 
A  visit  to  two  despondent  persons  at  Stillwater — Again  visits 
Salem  and  Springfield  Meetings — Neglects  an  apprehended 
duty  at  the  town  of  Barnesville  —  An  acknowledgment  and 
regret  over  other  omissions — Death  of  Micajah  Johnson — 
Frequent  sufferings  of  spirit  on  account  of  the  war — Again 
visits  Salem  and  Springfield  Quarters,  and  their  branches,  169 

CHAPTER    VIII. 

A  religious  visit  to  Philadelphia  Yearly  Meeting,  and  many 
of  its  branches — Her  remarkable  testimony  in  the  men's 
Yearly  Meeting,  and  much  plain  dealing  in  other  places, 
during  the  fulfilment  of  required  services  there,  .  .  .  207 


CONTENTS.  VII 

PAGE. 

CHAPTER    IX. 

Protracted  illness — Private  spiritual  exercises — Interview  with 
Daniel  Koll — And  opportunities  with  other  individuals — A 
religious  visit  to  Indiana — Iowa — And  the  western  parts  of 
Ohio ;  and  the  peculiar  exercises  and  trials  connected  there- 
with— Death  of  her  brother,  Jacob  Branson,  and  her  accom- 
panying feelings,  .  252 

CHAPTER    X. 

Death  of  her  cousin  William  Wright ;  and  further  remarks 
on  the  last  days  of  her  brother  Jacob — Appointment  of 
meetings  from  amongst  Friends — Home  exercises,  and  labors 
in  that  vicinity — A  visit  to  Springfield  Quarter  on  a  Yearly 
Meeting  appointment — Further  exercises,  and  labor  about 
home — A  testimony  against  attending  at  "  fairs  " — Religious 
service  at  Concord — Death  of  Joseph  Hobson,  and  remarks 
thereon — Death  of  Joseph  Wilson,  and  her  feelings  concern- 
ing him, 289 

CHAPTER    XI. 

Death  of  Hannah  Mitchell,  and  hopeful  remarks — Death  of 
Ruth  Conrow  —  Death  of  W'illiam  Bailey,  and  remarks 
thereon — A  religious  visit  to  Pennsville  and  Short  Creek 
Quarters,  extending  to  their  branches  and  families — A  re- 
ligious visit  to  Salem  Quarter  —  Its  branches  and  some 
families — Death  of  Joseph  Walker — Death  of  Isaac  Mit- 
chell— Death  of  her  cousin,  Joseph  Branson,  and  remarks 
concerning  him — Exercises  under  a  sense  of  the  situation  of 
her  own  Yearly  Meeting, .  318 

CHAPTER    XII. 

Exercises  of  the  Yearly  Meeting's  committee  relative  to  im- 
pending duty  towards  small  bodies  of  Friends,  who  have 
lately  withdrawn  from  some  of  the  progressive  bodies,  in  a 
testimony  against  their  unsoundness  —  Considerations  also 
included  touching  correspondence  with  the  Smaller  Body 


Vlll  C  0  N  T  E  NT  S  . 

PAGE. 

in  New  England — A  religious  visit  to  the  meetings  consti- 
tuting Ohio  Yearly  Meeting,  extending  to  Iowa  and  Kansas 
— Death  of  her  cousin,  Elizabeth  Smith — Visited  her  aged 
friend,  Hannah  Warrington,  of  Moorestown,  N.  J.,  and  at- 
tended some  meetings  in  that  vicinity — Death  of  her  brother- 
in-law,  Jesse  Roberts,  and  her  commendation  of  his  Christian 
virtues— Attended  the  Orthodox  Canada  Yearly  Meeting, 
and  visited  some  of  its  branches  —  Death  of  her  nephew, 
Benjamin  Branson  —  Death  of  Martha  A.  Wilson — Death 
of  Stephen  Hobson  —  A  religious  visit  to  the  Orthodox 
Western  Yearly  Meeting — A  tedious  illness,  .  .  .  347 

CHAPTER    XIII. 

Paid  a  religious  visit  to  the  Yearly  Meeting  of  the  Smaller 
Body  in  New  England  and  most  of  its  branches — Attended 
several  meetings  in  Philadelphia,  and  thereabouts,  on  her 
way  home — A  plain  and  searching  testimony  at  Arch  Street 
Monthly  Meeting  —  Confinement  by  indisposition  —  A  re- 
ligious visit  to  the  meetings  constituting  Salem  Quarter — 
Home  exercises  and  religious  service,  when  physically  able, 
within  the  limits  of  her  own  Quarterly  Meeting — Per- 
manently declining  illness,  and  spiritual  exercises  of  her  last 

369 


JOURNAL 

OF 

ANN    BRANSON. 


CHAPTER   I. 

HER  BIRTH  AND  CHILDHOOD — SOME  ACCOUNT  OF  HER  PARENTS  AND  OTHER 
MEMBERS  OF  THE  FAMILY — APOSTACY  OF  ELISHA  BATES,  AND  HER  EXER- 
CISES CONCERNING  IT — THOMAS  SHILLITOE'S  TESTIMONY  CONCERNING  J. 

J.  GURNEY'S  DOCTRINES — THE  PHILADELPHIA  APPEAL— EVENTS  OF  HER 

EARLY  WOMANHOOD — HER  DISOBEDIENCE,  AND  REPENTANCE,  AND  FOR- 
GIVENESS THEREFOR — HER  BED  OF  SICKNESS,  AND  FIRST  SERMON— HER 
SUBSEQUENT  RECOVERY. 

I  have  long  believed  it  would  be  required  of  me  to  leave 
in  writing  some  account  of  the  Lord's  gracious  dealings  with 
me  from  early  years,  in  connection  with  some  other  accounts 
bearing  thereupon.  And  now  in  the  fifty-  sixth  year  of  my 
age,  I  have  made  the  commencement,  having  nothing  in 
view  that  I  know  of  but  to  be  found  in  the  way  of  my  duty. 

I  was  born  the  twenty-second  of  the  Twelfth  Month,  1808. 

My  parents,  Jacob  and  Rebecca  Branson,  removed  from 
Virginia  in  1805,  and  settled  at  Flushing,  in  Belmont  Co., 
Ohio,  which  was  the  place  of  my  birth. 

They  had  nine  children — four  sons  and  five  daughters.  I 
was  the  fifth  daughter  and  the  sixth  child.  I  was  naturally 
of  a  hasty,  fretful  temper,  which  was  perhaps  increased  by  an 
erysipelas  humor,  particularly  in  my  face  and  arms,  to  which 
I  was  subject  from  my  infancy.  It  often  occasioned  me 
much  suffering,  and  as  I  grew  in  years  was  no  small  mortifi- 
2 


10  JOURNAL     OF 

cation  to  my  pride,  which  I  esteem  not  the  least  of  the  favors 
bestowed  upon  me ;  and  can  remember  sometimes  wishing 
that  I  had  never  been  born. 

Being  given  to  fretfulness,  I  often  became  the  subject  of 
animadversion  by  the  other  children,  who  thus  added  to  my 
affliction  by  upbraiding  me  with  my  fiery,  hasty  temper. 
Children  of  the  same  family  are  often  very  differently  consti- 
tuted, as  respects  their  natural  tempers  as  well  as  their  bodily 
health,  and  require  judicious  treatment  for  their  present  and 
future  comfort  and  welfare,  as  they  advance  in  life.  My 
father  was  a  minister,  and  my  mother  an  elder,  of  the  relig- 
ious Society  of  Friends ;  and  they  were  concerned  to  train 
up  their  children  in  the  nurture  and  admonition  of  the  Lord. 
I  was  twenty-five  years  old  when  my  mother  died ;  and  I 
have  no  recollection  of  ever  seeing  her  out  of  humor,  or  of 
hearing  her  speak  an  unadvised,  unbecoming  word  to  my 
father,  or  to  her  children.  From  her  children  she  required 
prompt  obedience,  and  though  she  seldom  resorted  to  the 
rod,  yet  she  did  not  wholly  discard  it ;  but  when  it  was  nec- 
essary to  wield  it  she  did  it  with  a  portion  of  that  wisdom 
which  is  wanting  in  those  who  spare  the  rod  and  spoil  the 
child.  My  father  was  naturally  of  a  hasty  temper,  and  had 
much  more  to  contend  with  in  this  respect  than  my  mother; 
but  he  was  of  a  generous,  free  and  forgiving  spirit :  keeping 
in  view  the  best  welfare  of  all  around  him.  Having  ex- 
perienced the  axe  laid  to  the  root  of  the  corrupt  tree  in 
himself,  he  was  firm  and  undeviating  in  the  maintenance  of 
those  Christian  principles  and  testimonies  given  to  our  relig- 
ious Society  to  uphold  to  the  world.  He  was  not  betrayed 
into  that  weakness  and  folly  which  characterize  many  parents 
in  our  Society  at  the  present  day — that  of  giving  undue 
liberty  and  indulgence  to  their  children  in  respect  to  dress, 
company,  &c. ;  encouraging  them  by  their  example  to  follow 


ANN     BRANSON.  11 

the  vain  fashions,  manners  and  maxims  of  the  world.  But 
when  my  father  drew  near  his  close  he  could,  with  calm  and 
Christian  composure,  say — whilst  his  children  were  gathered 
around  his  dying  bed — "I  am  clear  of  the  blood  of  my  chil- 
dren." 

The  house  and  heart  of  my  parents  were  always  open  for 
the  reception  of  friends  and  strangers,  and  it  was  with  true 
and  genuine  hospitality  that  the  best  it  could  afford  was 
freely  offered  them ;  many  of  whom  it  was  our  privilege  to 
entertain.  During  the  Hicksite  controversy  and  separation, 
my  father  had  much  to  bear;  many  hard  things  were  said  of 
him,  and  many  reflections  cast  upon  him,  and  I  being  young 
and  not  fully  understanding  the  cause  of  all  that  was  said 
and  done,  became  very  much  concerned  and  troubled,  not 
knowing  what  might  be  the  result.  Whilst  in  this  situation 
of  mind,  I  one  night  dreamed  that  I  was  standing  in  the  path 
that  led  to  our  spring,  thinking  about  my  father,  when  sud- 
denly darkness  overspread  the  earth ;  then  I  looked  above 
my  head,  and  saw  a  light,  and  heard  a  voice  which  said — 
"  When  I  make  up  my  jewels  I  will  gather  him  amongst 
them."  This  dream  was  a  great  comfort  to  me,  for  I  believ- 
ed it  was  intended  to  convince  me  that  my  father  was  on  tKe 
right  ground,  notwithstanding  all  that  was  said  and  done 
against  him.  And  I  have  lived  to  see  him  leave  the  world 
as  a  shock  of  corn  gathered  in  its  season,  whilst  many  who 
opposed  him  have  come  to  nothing,  or  dwindled  in  the  best 
things. 

I  have  already  said  that  my  mother  was  an  Elder.  She 
was  of  a  sound  judgment,  and  exercised  that  judgment  for 
the  encouragement  of  right,  and  the  discouragement  of  wrong 
things  in  her  family  and  neighborhood,  and  in  society  at 
large,  where  her  lot  was  cast.  She  was  careful  neither  to 
overrate  nor  underrate  the  gifts  and  services  of  ministers, 


12  JOURNAL    OF 

and  when  she  felt  an  uneasiness  with  any,  where  duty  called 
for  an  expression  of  that  uneasiness,  she  would  go  to  the  in- 
dividual, or  individuals,  and  relieve  her  feelings  in  a  Chris- 
tian spirit,  and  in  such  an  honest  way  as  left  no  doubt  of  her 
heart-felt  concern  for  the  best  welfare  of  those  to  whom  she 
administered  caution,  reproof  or  whatsoever  might  be  given 
her  in  this  way  to  communicate. 

A  minister  belonging  to  our  Monthly  Meeting  had,  in  his 
ministerial  communication,  given  some  uneasiness  to  my 
mother ;  he  was  apprised  of  this,  and  subsequently  preaching 
a  sermon,  he  said  to  my  mother — "  Well,  Rebecca,  what 
hast  thou  heard  to-day,  that  thou  didst  not  approve?"  My 
mother  replied — "I  have  heard  the  bell,  but  where  was  the 
pomegranate  ?"  This  minister  afterwards  went  with  the  Hick- 
sites,  but  was  finally  disowned  by  them,  and  came  to  nothing ; 
having  at  one  time  three  wives,  all  living,  though  not  in  the 
same  neighborhood.  Some  years  after  this  a  minister  from 
another  Quarterly  Meeting,  travelling  with  a  minute  for 
religious  service,  came  to  my  father's ;  he  had  a  religious 
opportunity  in  our  family,  where  two  individuals  not  mem- 
bers of  the  family  were  present ;  to  one  of  these,  this  minister 
spoke  in  a  way  that  gave  great  uneasiness  to  my  parents. 
After  the  opportunity  was  over  my  mother  took  this  minister 
aside  and  told  him  that  he  well  knew,  that  he  had  not  spoken 
to  the  condition  of  this  individual,  and  warned  him  not  to 
be  deceived,  and  conclude  his  situation  better  than  it  really 
was.  My  parents  advised  this  minister  to  return  home, 
which  he  did. 

This  minister,  in  the  Separation  of  1854,  went  with  the 
Gurneyites,  though  he  had  at  one  time  clearly  seen  and 
condemned  the  unsound  writings  of  J.  J.  Gurney.  When 
Elisha  Bates  apostatized  from  the  doctrines  and  testimonies 
of  the  religious  Society  of  Friends,  it  caused  great  excitement 


ANN    BRANSON.  13 

particularly  in  the  minds  of  many  of  the  young  people  who 
were  strongly  attached  to  him.  It  was  at  our  meeting  at 
Flushing,  that  he  made  his  first  public  avowal  of  the  unsound 
doctrine  which  he  had  embraced,  touching  the  resurrection 
of  the  dead,  viz:  That  these  material  bodies  of  ours  will 
rise  from  the  dead,  &c. 

Friends  were  generally  surprised  and  startled  at  this  un- 
scriptural  and  anti-Quaker  doctrine.  They  were  also  bowed 
down  under  an  exceeding  weight,  and  exercise ;  and  some 
took  an  early  opportunity  with  him  on  account  thereof;  but 
he  gave  them  no  satisfaction.  I  was  at  that  time  from  home, 
teaching  school  at  Barnesville.  The  news  soon  came  to  .that 
neighborhood  that  Friends  at  Flushing  were  greatly  dis- 
satisfied with  Elisha  Bates  on  account  of  the  doctrine  which 
he  had  preached,  and  had  let  him  know  it.  I  soon  fell  to 
judging  Friends  for  calling  in  question  so  great  and  good  a 
man  as  E.  Bates.  Soon  after  this  Elisha,  and  some  of  his 
friends  who  went  with  him  in  his  new  views,  attended  Still- 
water  Quarterly  Meeting ;  he  and  they  were  high  and  flour- 
ishing in  their  words  and  manners. 

My  father  followed  Elisha  to  this  meeting  with  a  heavy 
heart  and  downcast  look.  I  soon  found  an  opportunity  to  let 
my  father  know  what  I  thought  of  Friends  calling  in  ques- 
tion such  a  man  as  Elisha  Bates,  and  that  I  thought  Friends 
ought  to  be  very  careful  how  they  censured,  or  judged  down 
anything  he  said;  thus  giving  my  father  a  gentle,  and  as  I 
then  thought  a  necessary  admonition  ;  being  supported  in 
my  views  at  this  time  by  some  whose  judgment  I  highly 
esteemed. 

My  father  made  but  little,  if  any,  reply  to  what  I  said,  but 
his  countenance  and  his  whole  deportment  on  that  occasion 
has  lived  in  my  remembrance.  He  appeared  to  be  weighed 
down  with  inexpressible  exercise  of  mind,  and  I  have  since 


14  JOURNAL    OF 

had  just  cause  to  believe,  that  his  prayers  for  ray  preserva- 
tion from  the  baits  and  allurements  of  Satan  ascended  at 
that  time  to  the  throne  of  Grace,  and  were  regarded  by  Him 
who  heareth  the  petitions  of  the  righteous,  and  answereth 
them  out  of  his  holy  habitation.  Soon  after  this  I  returned 
home  and  found  my  sister  Lydia,  who  was  some  years  older 
than  myself,  and  a  thoughtful,  religious  young  woman,  greatly 
exercised,  and  distressed  concerning  the  events  then* transpir- 
ing. She  had  been  greatly  attached  to  Elisha  Bates,  believing 
him  to  have  been  a  Gospel  minister,  and  a  father  in  the 
Church ;  but  his  recent  movements,  and  anti-Quaker  doc- 
trine she  was  not  prepared  to  unite  with.  AVe  seached  and 
read  the  Scriptures,  and  reasoned  and  meditated  thereon 
(too  much  in  our  own  will  and  wisdom),  to  find  out  whether 
Elisha's  views  were  right  or  wrong;  but  this  did  not  bring 
the  reward  of  peace,  or  satisfy  the  soul.  My  parents,  both 
by  example  and  precept,  advised  quietude  and  stillness,  which 
we  found  tended  to  our  settlement  in  the  Truth  as  it  is  in 
Jesus.  They  believed  that  time  would  make  manifest  what 
spirit  Elisha  and  his  supporters  were  of;  or  rather  that,  in  the 
Lord's  time  and  by  his  Spirit,  they  would  be  seen  in  their 
true  colors. 

Previous  to  his  giving  uneasiness  to  his  friends  by  the  pro- 
mulgation of  unsound  doctrine,  Elisha  Bates  had  obtained 
liberty  from  his  Monthly,  Quarterly,  and  Select  Yearly 
Meetings,  to  make  a  religious  visit  to  Friends,  and  others, 
in  England,  Ireland,  &c.  In  London  Yearly  Meeting  he 
met  with  a  cordial  reception  from  many  of  their  leading 
members,  who  were  not  only  prepared  to  receive  him  with 
his  new  views,  but  also  to  advocate  and  advance  other  senti- 
ments and  practices  greatly  at  variance  with  the  doctrines 
and  testimonies  of  Friends.  E.  Bates,  Isaac,  and  Anna 
Braithwaite,  united  together  in  holding  public  meetings,  par- 


ANN    BRANSON.  15 

ticularly  for  the  young  people,  and  thus  sowed  broadcast 
their  unscriptural  and  anti-Quaker  views.  But  they  and 
others  were  too  fast  in  their  movements  to  take  along  with 
them  any  considerable  number  of  followers.  Soon  after  E. 
Bates  returned  from  this  visit  he  made  a  second  one  to 
England  without  the  consent  of  the  Society ;  and  while  there, 
was  baptized  with  water,  which  set  the  minds  of  many 
Friends  at  rest  concerning  him  who  before  were  disposed  to 
advocate  his  cause;  but  now  he  was  taken  under  dealing 
and  disowned. 

He  wrote  and  published  much  against  early  Friends,  par- 
ticularly against  George  Fox,  endeavoring  to  render  their 
principles  and  religious  views  odious  in  the  eyes  of  the  world, 
but  he  had  but  few  followers,  though  he  sought  honor  and 
popularity  amongst  men  by  forsaking  and  writing  against 
the  Society  of  which  he  had  been  a  useful  member,  and  an 
anointed  minister  while  he  abode  in  the  Truth ;  but  when 
he  forsook  the  Truth  and  went  after  his  own  devices  the 
Lord  dealt  with  him  as  He  did  with  Balaam.  For  the  society 
with  whom  he  joined  in  religious  profession  after  he  was 
disowned  by  Friends,  never  promoted  him  to  honor,  so  that 
it  might  be  said  of  him  as  it  was  said  to  Balaam — "  The 
Lord  hath  kept  thee  back  from  honor." 

Previous  to  sailing  for  Europe  the  second  time  Elisha 
Bates  again  visited  our  meeting  at  Flushing,  where  he  preach- 
ed his  own  funeral  sermon  *  in  a  very  impressive  manner, 
as  the  sequel  proved.  He  quoted  from  the  fifteenth  chapter 
of  Ezekiel,  comparing  those  who  forsook  the  principles  and 
testimonies  of  Friends  to  the  rejected  vine  there  spoken  of; 
they  became  as  outcasts,  meet  for  no  good  work  whatever, 
&c.,  &c.  I  seem  to  behold  him  at  this  very  moment,  as 
I  then  beheld  him — grave,  and  commanding  in  look  and 
*  In  a  spiritual  sense. 


16  JOURNAL    OF 

gesture,  and  with  all  the  fervor  and  eloquence,  for  which 
he  was  remarkable,  portraying  the  sad  and  sorrowful  con- 
dition of  those  who  thus  make  shipwreck  of  faith  and  a  good 
conscience.  I  seem  even  now  to  hear  this  plaintive  language 
as  it  fell  from  the  lips  of  one  just  ready  to  realize  in  his 
own  experience  the  mournful  truth  thereof — "Not  meet  for 
any  work.  Not  fit  for  a  pin  to  hang  any  vessel  thereon." 
And  I  see  and  feel  in  connection  with  this  the  indispensable 
necessity  of  taking  heed  to  our  Saviour's  injunction — "  Let 
him  that  thinketh  he  standeth  take  heed  lest  he  fall." 

Soon  after  E.  Bates  was  disowned,  Joseph  John  Gurney 
came  to  America  on  a  religious  visit,  and  Thomas  Shillitoe 
declared,  in  his  dying  testimony,  unequivocally  against  the 
generality  of  his  writings,  as  being  "non-Quaker  principles, 
not  sound  Quaker  principles,  but  Episcopalian  ones ;  and 
they  have  done  great  mischief  in  our  Society ;  and  the  So- 
ciety will  go  gradually  down,  if  it  yields  to  the  further  cir- 
culation of  that  part  of  his  works  which  they  have  in  their 
power  to  suppress — this  is  my  firm  belief."  And  time  has 
verified  to  a  great  extent  the  truth  of  his  testimony. 

Jonathan  Evans,  in  a  letter  to  John  Wilbur,  says:  "I 
have  perused  a  great  deal  of  his  ( J.  J.  G.)  writings  and  have 
been  sorely  distressed  at  the  darkness  and  confusion  which 
are  almost  inseparable  from  their  contents." 

Abner  Heald,  a  sound  Gospel  minister  belonging  to  Ohio 
Yearly  Meeting,  on  his  death-bed  bore  this  testimony  in  the 
presence  of  substantial  witnesses,  viz  :  "  Those  who  say  that 
the  writings  of  Joseph  John  Gurney  are  in  accordance  \\ith 
the  writings  of  early  Friends,  will  be  found  liars  before  God 
— his  writings  darken  the  atmosphere  of  the  Lord's  firma- 
ment." This  is  also  the  testimony  of  my  heart  concerning 
the  writings  of  Joseph  J.  Gurney. 

In  1846  and  1847  the  subject  of  unsound  doctrines,  written 


ANN     BRANSON.  17 

and  published  by  members  of  London  Yearly  Meeting,  took 
such  hold  of  the  Meeting  for  Sufferings  of  Philadelphia  that 
a  document  was  prepared  by  that  Body  and  subsequently 
adopted  by  the  Yearly  Meeting.  It  was  entitled  an  "Appeal 
for  the  Ancient  Doctrines  of  the  Society  of  Friends,"  and 
contrasted  portions  of  the  writings  of  Joseph  J.  Gurney  and 
Dr.  Edward  Ash  with  the  early  standard  writers  in  the 
Society,  on  the  same  subjects,  and  the  discrepancies  were 
thus  brought  more  fully  and- generally  before  the  public  eye. 

In  1846  Ohio  Yearly  Meeting  sent  to  London  Yearly 
Meeting  as  follows,  viz:  "The  peace  and  harmony  of  this 
Yearly  Meeting,  in  its  several  branches  as  also  in  its  collec- 
tive capacity,  at  the  present  season  have  been  greatly  dis- 
turbed on  account  of  the  doctrinal  writings  of  a  member  or 
members  of  your  Yearly  Meeting  in  circulation  amongst  us, 
which  are  not  deemed  by  us  to  be  in  accordance  with  those 
on  the  same  subjects,  of  our  ancient  approved  authors." 

Ohio  Yearly  Meeting  subsequently  adopted  the  "Appeal 
for  the  Ancient  Doctrines,"  as  published  by  Philadelphia 
Yearly  Meeting.  Notwithstanding  the  brotherly  appeals 
which  had  been  issued  from  time  to  time  by  Philadelphia 
and  Ohio  Yearly  Meetings,  to  London  Yearly  Meeting,  on 
the  subject  of  the  unsound  writings  alluded  to,  London  Year- 
ly Meeting  in  1847  issued  a  memorial,  or  testimony  concern- 
ing Joseph  John  Gurney,  in  which  it  is  said — "  resigning 
himself  in  the  simplicity  of  a  little  child  to  the  unerring 
guidance  of  the  holy  Spirit,  he  was  enabled,  though  sur- 
rounded by  adverse  circumstances,  to  make  a  full  surrender; 
and  he  maintained  with  holy  boldness,  the  principles  and 
testimonies  of  the  Society  through  the  remainder  of  his  life." 
And  again — "It  will  not  be  expected  that  we  should  here 
advert  at  any  length  to  his  writings,  but  it  is  right  for  us  to 
express  our  belief,  that  in  these  undertakings  as  in  every 


18  JOURNAL    OF 

other,  he  was  actuated  by  a  sincere  desire  to  promote  the 
glory  of  God,  and  the  welfare  of  his  fellow-men,  and  at  the 
same  time  to  maintain  with  unflinching  integrity,  the  Truth 
as  it  is  in  Jesus."  It  would  then  appear  that  Joseph  J. 
Gurney's  attacks  on  the  doctrines  and  integrity  of  the  early, 
and  standard  authors  in  the  Society  are  "  believed  by  London 
Yearly  Meeting  to  have  been  called  for  to  promote  the  glory 
of  God,  and  the  welfare  of  his  fellow-men,"  and  needed  to 
"  maintain  with  unflinching  integrity,  the  Truth  as  it  is  in 
Jesus."  What  I  have  written  respecting  the  apostacy  of 
Elisha  Bates,  I  have  written  under  a  belief  that  it  was  right 
so  to  do ;  I  have  also  believed  it  right  for  me  to  give  forth 
an  unequivocal  testimony  against  the  unsound  writings  of 
Joseph  John  Gurney,  being  satisfied  from  my  heart  with  the 
doctrinal  writings  of  early  Friends,  and  have  greatly  admired 
the  wisdom  and  goodness  of  God  in  enabling  and  qualifying 
Robert  Barclay  to  give  forth  such  a  clear  and  scriptural  ex- 
position of  the  doctrines  of  our  religious  Society  as  is  con- 
tained in  the  "Apology."  And  I  have  often  said  in  my  heart, 
it  is  the  Lord's  doings,  and  marvellous  in  mine  eyes. 

But  to  return  to  my  early  life — I  was  naturally  of  a  vola- 
tile disposition,  and  took  great  delight  in  childish  play ; 
though  I  can  remember  having  very  serious  thoughts  and 
impressions  when  quite  young.  On  one  occasion  having  told 
an  untruth  when  a  child,  it  gave  me  great  uneasiness,  so  that 
I  could  not  sleep  when  I  went  to  bed ;  but  prayed  that  I 
might  be  forgiven  ;  and  I  remember  going  into  the  orchard 
alone  and  praying  to  my  heavenly  Father  to  keep  me  from 
evil,  and  make  me  a  better  child.  I  am  satisfied  that  the 
minds  of  children  are  often  seriously  impressed  with  good 
desires  and  feelings  when  quite  young. 

At  one  time  having  committed  a  mischievous  act  which 
I  knew  would  occasion  my  father  to  enquire  of  his  children 


ANN     BRANSON.  19 

who  was  the  author  of  the  mischief,  I  had  great  reasonings 
in  ray  mind  whether  to  own  or  deny  the  act;  but  finally  re- 
solved to  speak  the  truth,  though  it  might  subject  me  to  the 
discipline  of  the  rod :  so  when  my  father  called  upon  us  to 
know  who  had  committed  the  depredation,  I  unhesitatingly 
answered  that  I  did  it,  and  I  felt  great  joy  that  I  had  been 
preserved  from  equivocation,  or  wilfully  departing  from  the 
truth,  through  the  fear  of  punishment ;  and  it  was  a  strength 
and  encouragement  to  me  afterwards  to  adhere  to  the  truth. 
I  remember  on  one  occasion  when  I  was  a  child,  returning 
from  school,  it  being  meeting  day,  I  was  met  by  my  father, 
who  enquired  where  I  was  going ;  I  answered,  I  was  going 
home,  as  I  did  not  want  to  go  to  meeting  that  day — the  rest 
of  the  scholars  having  gone.  My  father  took  me  by  the 
hand  and  led  me  to  the  meeting-house,  greatly  in  the  cross 
to  my  will.  As  we  walked  along,  anxious  to  find  an  excuse 
for  absenting  myself  from  meeting,  I  told  my  father  that  the 
carpenter  he  had  employed  in  his  service,  calling  him  by 
name,  did  not  always  go  to  meeting  on  Fourth-days.  This 
little  incident  of  my  father's  faithfulness,  and  my  own  child- 
ish flimsy  excuse  for  absenting  myself  from  meeting  on  that 
occasion  by  referring  to  the  example  of  the  carpenter,  has 
often  since  been  brought  to  my  remembrance. 

Children  take  great  notice  of  the  example  of  those  who 
are  older  than  themselves,  and  are  apt  to  lay  hold  of  any- 
thing that  they  see  in  others,  that  they  think  will  be  an  ex- 
cuse for  their  own  faults. 

The  carpenter  I  mentioned,  in  his  eagerness  to  grasp  the 
things  of  the  world,  often  neglected  the  attendance  of  our 
religious  meetings :  and  after  a  while,  for  the  sake  of  accu- 
mulating, he  moved  where  there  was  no  meeting  of  Friends 
within  his  reach  ;  but  the  judgments  of  the  Lord  overtook 
him,  for  he  was  soon  visited  with  a  fever  which  afflicted  his 


20  JOURNAL     OF 

limbs  and  made  him  a  cripple  through  the  rest  of  his  life. 
As  soon  as  he  was  able  he  moved  back  into  our  neighbor- 
hood, and  became  for  a  time  more  thoughtful  of  his  spiritual 
welfare ;  he  attended  meetings  pretty  regularly,  but  being 
again  able  to  work  at  his  trade,  he  relapsed  into  his  former 
careless  habits,  and  finally  forsook  meetings  altogether.  Be- 
fore he  left  our  neighborhood  the  last  time  and  moved  west, 
the  Lord  gave  me  a  close  testimony  to  deliver  to  him,  warn- 
ing him  that  the  day  of  final  reckoning  would  come,  and  if 
his  talent,  or  talents,  were  not  occupied  to  the  glory  of  God, 
awful  would  be  the  consequence,  &c.  But  he  did  not  take 
the  message  well,  which  he  showed  in  his  conduct  towards 
me  afterwards ;  but  I  felt  satisfied  with  having  done  my  duty. 
His  last  days  were  said  to  have  been  spent  in  apparent  for- 
getfulness  of  his  God,  who  had  dealt  thus  mercifully  with 
him. 

The  foregoing  account  of  this  carpenter  I  have  recorded 
as  a  warning,  not  to  trifle  with  the  offer  of  God's  mercy 
through  Jesus  Christ  to  the  immortal  soul,  lest  He  withdraw 
his  loving  kindness,  and  leave  the  heart  desolate — -awful  state 
for  any  to  be  found  in — Lord  preserve  me  therefrom,  saith 
my  soul. 

When  I  was  going  to  school  I  was  amongst  the  number 
who,  when  taken  to  meeting,  often  fell  into  a  dull,  sleepy 
condition.  I  felt  that  this  was  wrong,  and  it  became  my 
daily  concern  that  I  might  be  enabled  to  overcome  this 
sleepy  feeling  in  meeting,  seeing  no  use  in  people  going  to 
meeting  to  sleep. 

One  Fourth-day  morning  I  came  to  this  conclusion,  viz  : 
"I  will  go  to  meeting  to-day,  and  if  I  am  overcome  with 
sleep  as  I  have  been,  I  will  in  future  stay  at  home" — not 
thinking  whether  my  parents  would  allow  it  or  not. 

I  went  to  meeting  under  exercise  that  I  might  be  pre- 


ANN     BRANSON.  21 

served  from  this  shameful  practice,  and  the  Lord  conde- 
scended to  show  forth  his  power  even  to  a  child  as  I  was,  for 
He  took  sleep  from  my  eyes  at  that  time,  and  for  several 
years  afterwards  I  never  knew  what  it  was  to  feel  sleepy  in 
our  religious  meetings,  though  before  this  I  had  been  so 
given  to  it  that  I  have  sometimes  come  near  falling  off  the 
bench.  I  write  this  to  encourage  children,  and  others,  to 
strive  lawfully  for  the  blessing  of  preservation  from  this  prac- 
tice, and  in  the  Lord's  time  He  will  deliver  them  from  it. 

When  I  was  in  my  fourteenth  year  my  sister  Deborah 
died.  She  was  next  older  than  myself.  After  her  death  I 
thought  I  could  never  again  indulge  in  idle  conversation, 
laughing  and  jesting,  to  which  I  was  naturally  very  much 
prone;  but  the  impressions  made  by  her  death  on  my  feelings 
were  too  much  like  the  morning  cloud,  and  early  dew,  that 
soon  pass  away.  Her  last  words  on  bidding  her  sisters  fare- 
well, were — "  May  the  Lord  hold  you  in  his  hand  " — which 
prayer  has  been  answered,  with  respect  to  those  who  have 
since  been  taken  from  works  to  rewards.  My  sisters,  four  in 
number,  were  all  taken  away  by  death  before  they  reached 
meridian  age ;  and  all  left  a  comfortable  assurance  to  their 
relatives  and  friends  that  their  end  was  peace. 

When  I  was  about  sixteen  years  of  age  my  eldest  brother 
engaged  in  the  mercantile  business  in  a  little  village  about 
four  miles  from  my  father's.  As  my  brother  was  not  then 
married,  my  parents  consented  for  me  to  go  and  keep  house 
for  him  for  a  while,  that  I  might  be  company  for  him,  assist 
some  in  his  business,  &c.,  there  being  no  Friends  in  the  place. 
When  I  was  settled  in  my  new  situation  I  found  I  was  sur- 
rounded with  temptations  to  which  I  had  before  been  a  stran- 
ger. I  was  soon  invited  to '  a  party  and  had  an  inclination 
to  go,  but  my  parents  had  kept  me  from  indulging  in  the 
fashions  of  the  world,  and  I  knew  that  I  had  no  clothes  that 


22  JOURNAL    OF 

would  correspond  with  the  dress  of  those  I  was  to  mingle 
with.  I  concluded  that  I  should  be  a  speckled  bird  amongst 
them,  and  therefore  did  not  go.  Thus  I  found  the  care  of 
my  parents  to  have  been  as  a  hedge  about  me,  preserving  at 
that  time  from  running  into  unprofitable  company. 

After  this  party  was  over,  it  was  reported  there  were  some 
young  Quakers  present  who  were  said  to  have  been  the  wild- 
est and  most  unbecoming  in  their  conduct  of  any  that  at- 
tended. I  then  felt  truly  thankful  that  I  was  not  one  of  the 
guests.  These  young  people,  Quakers  as  they  were  called, 
had  run  out  in  their  dress,  language  and  manners,  so  as  to 
have  no  claim  to  the  name  of  Friends  except  a  right  of  mem- 
bership ;  and  here  let  me  remark,  it  would  have  been  justice 
to  these  young  people  and  a  credit  to  society,  had  they  before 
this  been  treated  with,  and  if  they  could  not  have  been  re- 
claimed, disowned. 

I  now  began  to  consider  how  I  should  appear  amongst  my 
new  associates,  being  so  very  different  in  my  dress,  language 
and  manners  from  those  who  surrounded  me,  for  I  had  fre- 
quently to  be  in  the  store  when  my  brother  was  absent,  as 
well  as  at  other  times.  I  thought  of  trying  to  fashion  myself 
a  little  more  in  accordance  with  those  I  mingled  with,  and 
resolved  at  least  to  wear  my  hair  in  a  different  style  from 
that  to  which  I  had  been  accustomed ;  but  as  I  was  walking 
the  floor  one  day  reasoning  upon  the  subject,  I  opened  the 
Bible  which  was  lying  upon  the  table,  and  the  first  words 
that  presented  to  my  view  were  these — "  When  pride  cometh 
then  cometh  shame,  but  with  the  lowly  is  wisdom."  I  felt 
this  to  be  the  reproof  that  I  needed,  and  gave  up  my  plans. 
I  saw  that  it  was  pride,  and  pride  alone  that  made  me 
ashamed  of  that  plainness  and  simplicity  which  becomes  a 
Christian,  and  I  was  humbled  under  a  sense  of  the  goodness 
of  my  heavenly  Father  in  thus  condescending  to  strengthen 


ANN    BRANSON.  23 

that  in  me  which  had  been  wrestling  with  me  to  prevent  me 
from  doing  wrong.  My  brother,  who  had  been  a  wild  young 
man  and  had  deviated  in  dress  and  address  from  the  testi- 
monies of  Friends — though  at  that  time  somewhat  more 
thoughtful — observing  my  exercises,  said  to  me  on  one  occa- 
sion, "I  do  not  want  theeever  to  do  as  I  have  done  " — mean- 
ing in  regard  to  keeping  unprofitable  company,  departing 
from  the  plain  dress,  language,  &c.  This  I  perceived  he 
spoke  under  some  exercise  on  account  of  his  own  deviations 
and  for  a  warning  to  me,  which  proved  a  word  in  season. 
In  this  town  and  neighborhood  Quakerism  was  very  much 
scoffed  at.  On  one  occasion,  my  brother  being  absent,  a  man 
of  some  rank  and  fortune  in  the  neighborhood,  came  into 
the  store  and  thus  accosted  me — "How  does  thee  do? — em- 
phasizing every  word  as  he  spoke  it,  no  doubt  to  let  me  know 
that  it  was  in  derision  of  the  plain  language  and  little  Quaker 
girl  that  he  thus  addressed  me.  This  did  not  tempt  me  to 
depart  from  the  plain  Scripture  language  which  I  strictly 
adhered  to,  but  it  raised  in  my  young  mind  a  feeling  of  sur- 
prise and  indignation,  that  a  man  of  his  age,  sense  and  learn- 
ing, should  stoop  so  low  as  thus  to  address  me. 

I  did  not  stay  long  with  my  brother  in  this  village,  but 
long  enough  to  come  to  this  conclusion,  and  that  too,  as  I 
thought,  on  good  ground,  viz  :  That  members  of  our  religious 
Society,  whether  young  or  old,  must  be  in  possession  of  the 
truth  as  it  is  in  Jesus,  or  they  will  not  and  cannot  consist- 
ently support  the  principles  and  testimonies  of  Friends. 
AVhilst  living  here  I  met  with  a  remarkable  preservation 
from  fire,  which  I  think  proper  to  mention.  My  brother 
not  being  well,  laid  down  early  one  evening  in  the  same  room 
where  I  was  sitting,  and  soon  fell  asleep.  I  continued  sew- 
ing and  reading  for  some  time  after,  and  then  laid  my  sewing 
and  head  upon  the  table  by  which  I  was  sitting  and  fell 


24  JOURNALOF 

asleep  also ;  how  long  I  slept  I  cannot  tell,  but  I  was  aroused 
by  a  loud  crackling  noise,  like  that  produced  by  pouring 
water  on  a  stick  of  burning  wood.  I  had  left  the  candle 
burning  upon  the  table;  it  had  fallen  out  of  the  candlestick ; 
the  table  had  been  on  fire  and  a  considerable  hole  burnt  in 
it ;  but  the  fire  was  gone  out  as  if  extinguished  by  water, 
and  the  crackling  noise  which  awakened  me  was  still  to  be 
heard.  A  large  dictionary  and  Bible  were  considerably 
burned,  but  they  too  had  ceased  to  burn,  but  what  was  most 
remarkable,  a  piece  of  white  muslin  upon  which  I  had  been 
sewing  was  partly  burned  up;  this  too  had  ceased  to  burn,  as 
if  the  flame  had  been  extinguished  by  the  hand  of  man.  This 
preservation  from  fire  made  a  deep  impression  on  my  mind, 
and  I  have  ever  considered  it  a  special  interposition  of  Di- 
vine Providence.  My  head  lying  near  the  burning  materials 
must  have  been  subjected  to  the  greatest  peril. 

My  brother  as  well  as  myself  was  struck  with  wonder  and 
surprise  at  what  had  taken  place — and  I  record  this  special 
deliverance  from  fire  even  at  this  time  with  feelings  of  gra"ti- 
tude  and  wonder — gratitude  to  Him  who  extinguished  the 
flames,  and  wonder  at  the  compassionate  regard  of  my  Sa- 
viour towards  one  so  unworthy  his  notice. 

In  this  village  was  an  Inn,  just  opposite  our  dwelling, 
the  people  sometimes  had  balls,  and  parties  of  pleasure,  so- 
called.  The  awful  feelings  produced,  and  the  impressions 
made  upon  my  youthful  mind,  by  the  noise  of  the  fiddle  and 
the  sound  of  the  feet  of  these  time  murderers,  I  have  no 
language  fully  to  set  forth.  No  doubt  they  often  felt  the 
convictions  of  the  Holy  Spirit  for  such  conduct,  but  by 
striving  against  its  reproofs  they  became  hardened  in  sin 
and  transgression. 

A  religious  young  woman  of  the  Methodist  Society  gave 
me  an  account  of  her  experience  in  regard  to  dancing,  &c., 


ANN    BRANSON.  25 

which,  as  near  as  I  can  now  remember,  was  on  this  wise : 
It  had  been  the  practice  in  her  father's  house  to  have  dances, 
<fec.,  frequently,  in  which  she  had  participated ;  but  her 
mind  became  impressed  with  the  sinfulness  of  such  amuse- 
ments, and  she  sought  to  shun  them.  By  so  doing  she  soon 
became  the  subject  of  derision  and  persecution.  On  one 
occasion,  having  hid  herself  in  order  to  avoid  the  dance, 
she  was  sought  after,  found,  and  taken  into  the  dancing- 
room  and  compelled  to  take  the  floor.  After  taking  a  few 
steps  in  the  dance,  such  horror  of  mind  seized  her,  that  she 
resolved  to  dance  no  more,  let  the  consequence  be  what  it 
might.  In  vain  did  her  relations  and  associates  use  every 
endeavor  to  upset  her  good  resolutions ;  but  she  gained  upon 
them  by  her  faithfulness,  and  I  think  she  said — when  con- 
versing with  me — that  the  practice  had  been  discontinued 
in  her  father's  family  for  some  years.  She  also  observed, 
that  as  her  mind  became  impressed  with  the  sin  of  dancing 
and  its  accompaniments,  she  felt  it  required  of  her  to  lay 
aside  her  gay  dress,  her  superfluous  ribbons,  and  gaudy 
trimmings,  and  when  compared  with  the  generality  of  that 
society  in  the  present  day,  she  was  a  plain  woman.  It  is 
due  to  my  parents  to  say,  that  it  was  not  their  choice,  nor 
by  their  encouragement,  that  my  brother  engaged  in  busi- 
ness in  this  town. 

A  few  years  after  his  marriage  he  left  the  place,  narrowly 
escaping  therefrom  with  his  right  of  membership.  Several 
young  men — members  of  our  Society — one  after  another 
were  placed  in  the  same  store  in  order  for  worldly  gain,  all 
of  whom  lost  their  rights  of  membership  before  they  left. 

The  following  advice  contained  in  our  book  of  Discipline 
is  worthy  the  serious  consideration  and  observance  of  Friends 
both  young  and  old  : 

"  It  is  the  affectionate  desire  of  the  Yearly  Meeting,  that 
3 


26  JOURNALOF 

Friends  may  wait  for  Divine  counsel  in  all  their  engage- 
ments, and  not  suffer  their  minds  to  be  carried  away  by  an 
inordinate  desire  of  worldly  riches ;  remembering  the  obser- 
vation of  the  Apostle  in  his  day,  and  so  often  sorrowfully 
verified  in  ours — They  who  will  be  rich  fall  into  temptation 
and  a  snare,  and  erring  from  the  faith  pierce  themselves 
through  with  many  sorrows." 

In  the  eighteenth  or  nineteenth  year  of  my  age  I  attended 
a  Meeting  for  Worship,  about  eight  miles  from  my  father's, 
appointed  for  Elizabeth  JRobson,  a  minister  from  England, 
in  which  she  had  large  and  laborious  service,  it  being  but 
a  short  time  previous  to  the  Hicksite  separation.  On  my 
way  home  from  this  meeting  some  weighty  and  serious  con- 
siderations took  hold  of  my  mind  on  the  subject  of  the  min- 
"istry,  particularly  relative  to  women's  preaching,  and  this 
language  of  the  Apostle  was  impressively  brought  to  my 
remembrance — "  We  are  made  as  the  filth  of  the  world,  and 
are  the  offscouring  of  all  things  unto  this  day."  These 
words  were  accompanied  with  such  feelings  as  made  me  ex- 
claim in  the  secret  of  my  heart — "  Make  of  me  anything 
else  in  the  Church,  but  a  minister  I  can  never  be." 

Sometime  after  this,  whilst  sitting  in  our  meeting  at  Flush- 
ing under  religious  exercise,  a  solemn  feeling  covered  my 
mind,  attended  with  an  impression  that  it  was  required  of 
me  to  appear  in  vocal  supplication,  and  felt  as  if  I  could 
scarcely  resist  the  gentle,  powerful  and  persuasive  influence 
of  that  holy  life-giving  power  and  spirit,  by  which  my  heart 
was  solemnized  and  my  spirit  tendered,  and  I  seemed  a  won- 
der to  myself,  thinking  it  scarcely  possible  that  such  an  one 
as  I  should  be  called  upon  to  address  the  Throne  of  Grace 
publicly.  So  I  put  it  from  me,  at  the  same  time  saying  in 
my  heart — "  If  Mary  Jones  (a  beloved  minister  then  belong- 
ing to  our  meeting)  will  speak  to  my  condition  to-day,  I  will 


1833.]  ANN    BRANSON.  27 

believe  this  impression  which  I  "have  felt  to  be  a  real  re- 
quirement." I  asked  a  certain  sign,  which  was  granted. 
This  Friend  presently  arose  and  said  that  she  believed  there 
were  those  in  that  meeting  amongst  the  youth  who  were,  or 
would  be,  called  to  the  work  of  the  ministry,  with  more  that 
seemed  pointed  and  encouraging ;  but  I  put  it  away  from 
me  as  a  dream,  or  vision  of  the  night.  Soon  after  this,  on 
taking  my  seat  in  our  meeting,  this  concern  again  revived ; 
but  I  again  endeavored  to  put  it  from  me,  saying,  after  so 
long  a  time,  &c.,  I  will  yield.  But  God  is  not  to  be  mocked, 
and  I  presently  heard  this  language  which  was  addressed  to 
a  rebellious  people  formerly,  addressed  to  the  ear  of  my  soul, 
viz :  "  Ye  shall  not  see  me  henceforth  until  ye  say  blessed 
is  he  that  cometh  in  the  name  of  the  Lord."  All  concern 
thus  to  appear  in  our  meetings  was  now  taken  from  me,  and 
I  had  almost  forgotten  that  such  a  thing  had  been  required 
until  awakened  by  the  judgments  of  Him  who  can  bring  all 
things  to  our  remembrance. 

In  the  winter  of  1832  and  1833,  whilst  teaching  school 
from  home,  I  took  a  heavy  cold,  which  affected  my  lungs, 
and  was  followed  by  a  hard  cough,  some  fever,  and  general 
debility.  But  on  my  return  home,  hoping  and  expecting 
soon  to  regain  my  usual  health,  I  engaged  with  my  cousin, 
Asa  Branson,  as  a  teacher  in  Friends'  school  at  Flushing. 
We  commenced  with  forty  scholars,  and  I  was  deeply  inter- 
ested, but  my  health  soon  obliged  me  to  quit  the  school- 
room. This  was  a  great  cross  to  my  natural  will  and  incli- 
nation. In  vain  did  I  hope  and  desire.  In  vain  did  I  strive 
and  struggle,  week  after  week  and  month  after  month,  to 
become  liberated  from  this  unexpected  and  grievous  dispen- 
sation of  affliction.  But  my  heavenly  Father  saw  meet  to 
continue  the  stroke  until  my  friends  thought  I  must  die,  and 
my  physicians  gave  me  no  hope  of  recovery.  My  cough  was 


28  JOURNAL     OF  [1833. 

very  oppressive  and  my  breathing  difficult,  and  my  pulsa- 
tions 120  in  a  minute.  My  beloved  sister  who  wailed  upon 
me,  and  watched  over  me  with  anxious  solicitude,  that  I 
might  be  fully  aware  of  my  critical  situation,  informed  me 
of  the  opinion  of  my  physician,  expressing  a  heart-felt  desire 
that  I  might  be  prepared  for  the  solemn  summons  which 
appeared  to  be  near  at  hand.  But  it  was  all  dark  to  me, 
whether  I  would  live  or  die ;  or  what  would  become  of  me 
were  I  to  be  soon  launched  into  the  confines  of  eternity. 
But  I  had  a  lingering  hope  that  the  Lord  would  not  cast 
me  off  on  the  left  hand.  When  able  to  ride  out  I  often  de- 
sired to  attend  our  religious  meetings,  when  my  friends 
thought  it  imprudent,  and  I  yielded  to  their  judgment.  On 
one  occasion  I  felt  much  depressed,  and  was  almost  ready  to 
murmur;  when  this  language  was  addressed  to  my  mental 
ear,  viz :  "What  dost  thou  want  to  go  to  meeting  for?  Is  it 
above  all  things  to  worship  God  in  spirit  and  in  truth  ?  "  I 
could  not  say  that  this  was  the  leading  motive ;  but  origi- 
nated more  from  a  desire  to  gratify  my  own  will  and  incli- 
nation than  to  glorify  the  Lord  my  God.  Then  I  remem- 
bered the  language  of  our  Saviour  to  the  Syro-phenician 
woman — "It  is  not  meet  to  take  the  children's  bread  and 
cast  it  to  dogs  " — and  I  was  greatly  humbled  under  a  feeling 
sense  of  my  unworthiness  of  the  least  of  the  Lord's  mercies. 
My  spiritual  conflicts  were  at  times  great,  the  depths  of 
which  were  only  known  by  the  Searcher  of  hearts.  I  was 
favored  to  see  by  and  through  the  light  of  Christ  in  my  heart, 
the  corruption  of  my  fallen  nature,  that  had  never  passed 
under  the  flaming  sword,  that  turns  every  way  to  keep  the 
way  of  the  tree  of  life.  I  had  a  strong  will  which  had  not 
been  slain,  and  a  proud  heart  which  had  not  been  fully 
humbled.  I  could  not  truthfully  adopt  the  language,  "  Thy 
kingdom  come,  thy  will  be  done  in  earth  as  it  is  in  heaven." 


1833.]  ANN     BRANSON.  29 

I  did  not  feel  willing  to  be  counted  a  fool  for  Christ's  sake, 
and  I  did  not  see  how  it  was  possible  that  I  could  be  brought 
into  that  state  of  mind. 

A  minister  from  another  neighborhood  having  paid  me  a 
visit,  after  her  return  home,  wrote  me  a  few  lines  expressing 
her  belief  that  my  spiritual  condition  was  comparable  to  that 
of  the  young  man  who  had  kept  all  the  commandments  from 
his  youth  up,  but  lacked  the  one  thing,  that  of  selling  all  and 
following  the  Lord  Jesus  in  the  way  of  his  requiring,  &c. 
When  I  received  these  few  lines  I  said  in  my  heart,  this  is 
the  truth,  the  very  truth — the  Lord  hath  put  it  into  thy 
heart  thus  to  address  me,  for  I  had  said  nothing  to  her  in 
regard  to  my  spiritual  conflicts;  but  I  felt  that  I  had  no 
might  or  power  of  my  own  to  take  one  step  in  the  right  di- 
rection, and  I  seemed  to  be  hastening  towards  the  end  of 
my  pilgrimage  without  a  preparation  for  the  final  summons. 
Thus  the  Lord  let  me  see  and  feel,  that  man  of  himself  can 
do  no  good  thing — he  cannot  soften  his  own  heart,  he  can- 
not repent  when  he  pleases  and  become  resigned  to  the  will 
of  the  Lord  in  his  own  will  and  time.  I  had  chosen  my  own 
way  and  disobeyed  his  command,  when  a  clear  manifesta- 
tion of  religious  duty  had  been  given  me  and  strength  to 
comply  therewith,  and  now  I  was  reaping  the  reward  of 
disobedience.  This  was  the  condition  of  my  mind  when, 
one  day  after  a  severe  spell  of  coughing,  I  sank  for  a  few 
moments  into  a  state  of  unconsciousness;  -  as  I  recovered 
from  this,  I  said  in  my  heart,  am  I  dying  without  any  evi- 
dence of  Divine  acceptance?  Then  this  language  was  ad- 
dressed to  my  spiritual  ear — "Art  thou  now  willing  to  be- 
come a  little  preacher?"  I  answered  on  this  wise — "Lord, 
thou  hast  all  power.  I  have  no  might  or  strength  of  my  own, 
make  of  me  what  seemeth  unto  thee  good."  But  at  that 
time  I  had  no  idea  what  would  be  required  of  me,  or  that 


30  JOURNAL    OF  [1833. 

anything  but  the  subjugation  of  ray  will  was  called  for. 
Through  the  judgments  of  the  Lord  mingled  with  mercy, 
the  deaf  and  dumb  spirit  was  now  being  cast  out;  that  spirit 
that  had  turned  a  deaf  ear  to  the  calls  of  the  Lord  and  dis- 
obeyed his  commandments — the  oaks  of  Bashan  and  cedars 
of  Lebanon  were  brought  down,  and  my  spiritual  condition 
resembled  in  no  slight  degree  that  of  Nebuchadnezzar,  whom 
seven  times  had  passed  over  him  before  he  was  humbled. 
I  now  felt  that  resignation  to  the  will  of  the  Lord  which  I 
once  thought  impossible.  Under  these  feelings  of  humilia- 
tion and  abasedness  of  self,  this  language  was  addressed  to 
the  ear  of  my  soul — "  Fear  not,  for  I  am  with  thee ;  be  not 
dismayed,  for  I  am  thy  God."  No  tongue  could  tell,  or  pen 
portray,  the  joy  of  my  heart  at  that  time.  I  felt  that  all 
my  sins  were  forgiven  through  the  mercy  of  God  in  Christ 
Jesus,  and  a  foretaste  of  that  joy  which  is  unspeakable  and 
full  of  glory  was  given  me — a  foretaste  of  the  joys  of  heaven 
where  ransomed  souls  and  holy  angels  surround  the  throne 
of  God,  ascribing  thanksgiving,  glory  and  honor  unto  the 
Lord  God  and  the  Lamb  forever.  At  this  time  I  was  en- 
tirely confined  to  my -bed,  and  apparently  near  the  end  of 
my  earthly  pilgrimage;  and  my  experience  at  this  eventful 
period  of  my  life  very  forcibly  reminded  me  of  the  account 
recorded  by  the  Apostle  Paul,  of  a  man  (doubtless  himself ) 
who  was  caught  up  into  the  third  heaven,  and  heard  things 
which  were  not-lawful  to  be  uttered  ;  and  the  truth  of  this 
declaration  of  the  same  Apostle  was  most  impressively  sealed 
upon  my  mind,  viz :  "  Eye  hath  not  seen,  nor  ear  heard, 
neither  hath  entered  into  the  heart  of  man  the  things  which 
God  hath  prepared  for  them  that  love  him."  But  "  God 
hath  revealed  them  unto  us  by  his  Spirit;  for  the  Spirit 
searcheth  all  things,  yea,  the  deep  things  of  God."  "  But 
the  natural  man  receiveth  not  the  things  of  the  Spirit  of  God : 


1833.]  ANN     BRANSON.  31 

for  they  are  foolishness  unto  him  ;  neither  can  he  know 
them,  because  they  are  spiritually  discerned." 

I  was  BOW  commanded  of  the  Lord  to  send  for  the  in- 
habitants of  the  village  near  which  we  resided,  that  I  might 
proclaim  unto  them  the  unsearchable  riches  of  Christ.  My 
dear  father  entered  fully  and  feelingly  into  the  concern  and 
extended  the  desired  information.  Many  came  to  whom  the 
gospel  of  life  and  salvation  was  preached  in  demonstration 
of  the  Spirit  and  of  power.  They  were  invited  to  come, 
taste  and  see  that  the  Lord  is  good  and  that  his  mercy  en- 
dureth  forever ;  that  it  is  extended  unto  all,  that  He  is  no 
respecter  of  persons,  that  in  every  nation  they  that  fear 
Him  and  work  righteousness  are  accepted  with  Him.  "  The 
Spirit  and  the  bride  say  come.  And  let  him  that  heareth 
say,  come.  And  let  him  that  is  athirst  come.  And  whoso- 
ever will,  let  him  take  of  the  water  of  life  freely." 

But  we  must  come  in  the  obedience  of  faith — we  must 
follow  the  leadings  and  teachings  of  the  Holy  Spirit,  whilst 
favored  with  the  visitation  of  Divine  mercy,  the  mercy 
of  God  in  Christ  Jesus  our  Lord  and  Saviour,  if  we  be- 
come heirs  of  eternal  salvation.  Christ  Jesus  came  not 
into  the  world  to  suffer  and  to  die  for  us,  to  save  us  in  our 
sins,  but  from  our  sins.  We  must  experience  the  refining, 
cleansing  operation  of  his  baptism — the  baptism  of  fire  and 
the  Holy  Ghost,  purging  the  temple  of  our  hearts  from  all 
that  his  righteous  controversy  is  with,  before  He  will  deign 
to  own  us  before  his  Father  and  the  holy  angels.  The  Lord 
strengthened  me  in  a  remarkable  manner  on  this  memorable 
occasion  to  proclaim  the  gospel  unto  the  people.  All  were 
attentive  and  serious,  and  it  may  be  said,  truth  reigned  and 
triumphed  over  all,  to  the  praise  and  honor  of  his  great  and 
glorious  name.  This  was  in  the  Tenth  Month  of  1833. 
From  this  time  I  began  slowly  to  recover ;  but  was  closely 


32  JOURNAL     OF  [1826. 

confined  all  the  ensuing  winter  to  my  room,  and  most  of  the 
time  to  my  bed.  A  large  abscess  formed  in  my  left  side, 
the  contents  of  which  were  thrown  off  by  expectoration. 
This  was  some  relief  in  the  way  of  breathing,  but  I  was  very 
weak  and  prostrated.  My  father  sent  for  another  physician, 
who  gave  him  no  encouragement  as  to  my  recovery,  but  I 
heard  a  voice  which  said,  "  Talitha-cumi,  maid  arise ; "  and 
I  then  thought  I  should  recover.  When  spring  came  and 
the  weather  became  sufficiently  warm  and  settled,  they 
placed  me  on  a  sled  and  took  me  out  in  the  fresh  air,  as  I 
was  able  to  bear  it.  I  soon  got  so  I  could  sit  meeting  by 
having  at  first  an  easy  chair  to  sit  in ;  and  I  found  that  I 
must  be  faithful  to  what  the  Lord  required  of  me  in  meeting, 
and  out  of  meeting,  if  true  peace  was  obtained. 


CHAPTER  II. 

• 

COMMENCEMENT  OF  HER  DIARY  ENTRIES — FIRST  POETRY — DEATH  OF  HER 
MOTHER — A  RELIGIOUS  VISIT  TO  SALEM  IN  COMPANY  WITH  HER  FATHER — 
A  RELIGIOUS  VISIT  TO  MEETINGS  IN  INDIANA — VlSIT  TO  A  NEIGHBORING 
MONTHLY  MEETING. 

Tenth  Month  19th,  1826.— The  forepart  of  this  evening 
was  spent  in  much  quietness,  but  towards  bed-time  a  confab 
ensued  which  I  fear  had  a  tendency  to  draw  our  minds  off 
from  a  state  of  watchfulness ;  for  as  it  is  recorded,  so  have 
I  experienced  it  to  be — "  In  the  multitude  of  words  there 
wanteth  not  sin  ;  "  and  I  know  there  is  often  much  loss  sus- 
tained when  young  persons  are  assembled  together  in  asocial 
way  by  indulging  in  light  and  unnecessary  conversation, 
jesting,  joking,  &c. ;  which  would  be  dispensed  with  were 
we  to  maintain  the  true  dignity  of  Christians,  and  duly  con- 
sider, that  for  every  idle  word  that  men  shall  speak  they 
shall  give  an  account  in  the  day  of  judgment  according  to 


1829.]  ANN     BRANSON.  33 

the  words  of  our  Saviour.     As  for  myself,  I  can  adopt  the 
language  of  the  poet : 

"  My  good  resolves  are  not  a  few, 
Though  transient  as  a  cloud  ; 
To-day  I  bid  the  world  adieu, 
To-morrow  join  the  crowd." 

And  there  seems  to  be  but  little  hope  of  amendment. 

"  May  I  govern  my  passions  with  absolute  sway 
And  grow  wiser  and  better  as  life  wears  away." 

Fourth  Month,  1828. 

To  thee  alone,  oh  gracious  God, 

My  griefs  are  fully  known, 
To  thee  and  to  thy  blessed  Son, 
One  with  thee  in  thy  throne. 

My  soul  doth  know  the  path  to  be 

A  narrow  one  indeed, 
That  leads  to  blessedness  and  thee, 

But  thou  hast  that  decreed. 

In  judgment,  oh  most  gracious  God, 

Remember  mercy,  too, 
And  with  thy  wise  chastising  rod, 

My  stubborn  will  subdue. 

Fifth  Month  25th,  1829. — I  have  been  renewedly  made 
sensible  this  evening,  that  it  is  only  as  we  are  brought  into 
a  capacity  humbly  to  acknowledge  that  of  ourselves  we  can 
do  no  good  thing,  that  we  are  able  to  make  a  just  discrimi- 
nation between  the  things  that  belong  to  Caesar  and  those 
which  belong  to  God.  And  although  many  of  us  can  ac- 
knowledge that  we  have  made  but  little  if  any  progress  in 
the  great  work  of  regeneration,  yet  I  believe  that  every 
tribute  that  hath  not  the  Divine  image  and  superscription 
upon  it,  offered  unto  Him,  will  not  only  meet  with  his  re- 


34  JOURNAL    OF  [1832. 

jection,  but  will  fail  to  be  acknowledged  by  the  witness  for 
truth  in  the  hearts  of  the  children  of  men. 

Ninth  Month  14th,  1832. — When  for  several  weeks  to- 
gether our  minds  are  constantly  and  solemnly  impressed 
with  the  necessity  of  a  godly  life  and  conversation,  and  that 
too  without  any  particular  distress  of  body  or  mind,  ought 
we  not  to  consider  it  a  special  call  to  holiness  of  the  most 
gracious  and  condescending  nature.  "Oh  Lord,  create  in 
me  a  clean  heart  and  renew  a  right  spirit  within  me,"  that 
I  may  not  suffer  in  vain  all  that  I  have  suffered,  if  it  be  yet 
in  vain. 

24th. — I  mourn  like  a  dove  for  the  day  to  arrive  when 
my  heart  shall  be  freed  from  the  thraldom  of  sin.  "  Oh  vain 
and  inconstant  world !  Oh  fleeting  and  transient  life,  when 
will  the  sons  of  men  learn  to  think  of  thee  as  they  ought." 

Tenth  Month  llth. 

Now,  if  consistent  with  thy  will, 
Great  God  thy  promises  fulfil, 

And  bless  my  father's  house  ; 
May  all  our  hearts  be  turned  to  thee, 
Our  wills  to  thine  subjected  be 

That  we  may  pay  our  vows. 

Oh  make  the  towering  cedars  bow, 
Bring  all  the  oaks  of  Bashan  low, 

Exalt  thy  holy  name ; 
Let  every  soul  contrited  prove, 
Rejoicing  only  in  thy  love, 

Kindle  a  lasting  flame. 

Oh  gracious  Father,  deign  to  hear, 
Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  lend  an  ear 

And  hear  the  suppliants'  cry : 
Parents  and  children  join  in  one 
To  supplicate  thy  holy  throne, 

Whose  dwelling  is  on  High. 


1833.]  ANN    BRANSON.  35 

[The  foregoing  lines  were  written  when  the  author  was  in 
good  health,  and  only  a  few  months  previous  to  the  begin- 
ning of  a  lingering  illness  of  which  mention  has  been  already 
made  in  this  book,  and  the  writer  believes  that  the  petition 
contained  in  those  lines  was  remarkably  answered  during 
this  illness  in  reference  to  her  own  case  and  others  of  the 
family.] 

Sixth  Month  7th,  1833. 

'Tis  time  for  amendment,  my  health  has  declined, 

My  vows  are  all  broken,  unpaid ; 
In  health  I  have  murmured,  midst  blessings  repined, 
And  the  Lord's  righteous  will  disobeyed. 

"Awaken,  oh  sleeper,"  with  sound  of  alarm, 

Hath  oft  been  announced  in  mine  ear ; 
The  thought  of  destruction,  the  heart-rending  storm, 
Hath  made  me  to  tremble  and  fear. 

My  every  resolve,  like  the  dew  on  the  grass, 

For  amendment,  hath  vanished  away  ; 
And  time  and  experience  have  taught  me  at  last 

That  pleasure  and  health  will  decay. 

Eighth  Month. 

Lord  unto  thee  I  now  commit  my  soul. 

Be  all  my  actions  under  thy  control, 

My  will,  my  wisdom  and  my  every  thought, 

Oh  may  they  be  to  true  subjection  brought. 

Enable  me  at  thy  Almighty  call, 

To  take  fresh  courage  and  to  part  with  all, 

To  part  with  all — No  longer  let  it  be 

My  sin  to  sorrow  and  depart  from  thee. 

Sell  all  thou  hast — Oft  has  this  gracious  word 

Within  my  bosom  secretly  been  heard, 

To  part  with  all. 


36  JOURNAL    OF  [1833. 

Ninth  Month  2nd,  1833. 

Dear  Cousin  Miriam  Ellis : — Seldom  during  my  late  af- 
fliction, have  I  found  it  congenial  with  the  health  of  mind 
or  body  to  use  my  pen ;  but  an  unexpected  and  almost  an 
undesired  liberty  induces  me  this  afternoon  to  acknowledge 
the  receipt  of  the  few  lines  thou  sent  me  some  months  ago. 
Not  that  I  believe  thou  art  looking  for  or  desiring  thanks 
from  me  for  the  performance  of  that  which  thou  believed 
to  be,  and  no  doubt  was,  thy  religious  duty.  For  I  do  most 
surely  believe  that  the  more  we  become  acquainted  and  fol- 
low the  teachings  of  the  Holy  Spirit,  the  less  we  shall  seek 
after  or  desire  the  honor  that  cometh  not  from  God  only. 
My  health  is  very  precarious,  and  I  know  not  how  it  may 
terminate.  But  will  not  the  Judge  of  all  the  earth  do  right? 
From  thy  afflicted  cousin, 

ANN  BRANSON. 

Ninth  Month  4th. — Dear  sister  Lydia  now  attending 
Yearly  Meeting.  Thou  knowest  that  I  am  obliged  to 
use  my  pen  seldom  and  sparingly ;  but  permit  me  to  tell 
thee  that  we  are  getting  along  very  quietly  and  quite  as 
comfortably  as  circumstances  will  admit.  Mother  has  no 
cause  for  much  anxiety  on  my  account,  which  I  esteem  a 
favor — called  to  see  us  yesterday,  thou  knowest  it  is  very 

pleasant  to  have  the  company  of  dear ,  but  far  more 

to  be  desired,  is  the  presence  of  Him  who  is  strength  in 
weakness,  and  a  present  helper  in  the  needful  time,  to  those 
who  put  their  trust  in  Him.  Is  it  a  time  in  which  you  are 
sensibly  partaking  of  the  bread  from  heaven  ?  Or  is  it  a 
time  of  withholding?  Murmur  not  if  the  latter  be  your 
condition  at  this  annual  gathering,  for  it  is  surely  of  the 
Lord's  mercies  that  we  are  not  consumed,  because  his  com- 
passions fail  not. 

From  thy  afflicted  sister,  A.  B. 


1834.]  ANN    BRANSON.  37 

Ninth  Month  23rd. 

What  shall  I  render  to  my  God 

For  all  his  gifts  to  me, 
For  with  his  wise  chastising  rod 

He's  gently  stricken  me. 

Gently,  for  days  and  months  gone  by, 

The  work  thou  hast  renewed, 
Hast  heard  the  wanderer's  bitter  cry 

In  secret  solitude. 

Third  Month  12th,  1834.— Oh!  Lord  God  of  Hosts,  grant 
ability  this  day,  I  beseech  Thee,  to  do  thy  holy  will,  grant 
light  enough  to  walk  in  without  stumbling.  May  thy  will 
be  done  in  me,  and  by  me,  and  through  me.  Oh !  God  of 
my  life,  I  am  in  a  strait,  undertake  for  me,  that  thy  truth 
may  not  be  blamed  through  my  omission  or  commission. 
If  it  be  right  that  I  should  again  be  brought  into  great 
tribulation  for  my  own  refinement  and  for  the  sake  of  others, 
thy  will  be  done.  Be  pleased  to  prosper  the  prayers  of  thy 
servants  of  every  age  and  station ;  magnified  and  adored 
be  thy  worthy  name  now  and  forever. 

Fifth  Month  13th. — Should  I  ask  a  blessing  for  myself, 
it  would  be  this, — a  cheerful  resignation  to  the  Lord's  will, 
even  in  the  most  humiliating  seasons,  and  preservation  from 
the  snares  of  the  enemy  of  my  soul's  peace.  This  is  what  I 
have  in  some  degree  experienced  in  time  past,  and  also  that 
peace  which  the  world  cannot  give. 

Fifth  Month  27th. — Condescend,  O,  most  Holy  Father, 
to  preserve  with  thy  preserving  power,  those  who  put  their 
trust  in  Thee ;  when  Thou  permittest  the  overflowing  scourge 
to  pass  through  this  land  and  this  place ;  when  Thou  whet- 
test  thy  sword  and  passest  over  to  destroy  and  to  make  an 
utter  end  according  to  thy  will  and  purpose ;  Oh !  spare  the 


38  JOURNAL    OF  [1836. 

children  of  this  family.  Let  us  be  found  abiding  in  our 
tents,  that  thy  hand  may  spare  us,  and  give  us  willing  and 
obedient  minds,  and  understanding  hearts,  to  know  and  to 
do  thy  will,  and  to  keep  thy  commandments.  And  if  Thou 
callest  my  father  to  labor  in  another  place,  or  another  part 
of  the  land,  grant  that  thy  protecting  power  may  support 
him  and  those  he  may  leave  behind,  for  thy  own  blessed 
name's  sake,  who  alone  art  worthy  of  all  honor,  praise  and 
thanksgiving,  now  and  forever,  amen.  And  now,  Oh !  Lord ! 
if  it  please  Thee,  grant  that  my  health  may  be  so  restored, 
as  that  I  may  be  enabled  to  accompany  my  father  in  body 
or  mind  through  many  deep  trials  he  may  have  to  encounter, 
whether  by  day  or  by  night,  whether  it  be  in  mental  con- 
flict or  bodily  suffering,  that  I  may  be  permitted  to  bear  up 
his  hands  when  the  raging  waves  may  be  permitted  to  beat 
vehemently. 

Tenth  Month  30th,  1835.  This  evening  one  year  ago, 
my  beloved  mother  died.  The  summons  was  very  sudden. 
She  retired  to  bed  about  nine  o'clock,  apparently  in  usual 
health ;  between  the  hours  of  ten  and  eleven  she  awoke, 
and  complained  of  pain  in  her  breast.  My  father  hastened 
down  stairs  to  get  something  for  her  relief;  he  returned  in 
a  short  time  and  found  her  dying.  Her  death  was  believed 
to  have  been  occasioned  by  an  abscess  in  her  side  breaking 
inwardly.  For  some  days  before  her  death  my  feelings 
were  unusually  solemn,  and  I  believe  she  felt  the  same  way. 
Oh !  may  I  ever  remember  the  solemn  warning  the  blessed 
Master  saw  fit  to  give  us  in  the  removal  of  my  dear  mother. 
It  matters  not  for  her,  we  have  no  cause  to  doubt  her  pre- 
paration. But  the  call  to  her  family,  friends  and  neighbors 
is  impressive — "Be  ye  also  ready,  for  at  such  an  hour  as 
ye  think  not,  the  Son  of  Man  cometh." 

Fourth  Month  15th,  1836. — A  feeling  of  the  absence  of 


1836.]  ANN     BRANSON.  39 

the  Beloved  of  Souls  has  accompanied  my  mind  for  some 
months  past.  Oh  !  when  will  the  winter  be  past ;  the  rains 
over  and  gone?  When  shall  I  experience  the  light  of  the 
glorious  countenance  of  the  Lord  to  fill  my  heart  as  in  days 
that  are  past,  when  He  was  pleased  to  lay  his  chastening 
hand  upon  me  and  bring  forth  judgment  unto  truth;  when 
He  saw  meet  to  appoint  many  bitter  cups  for  me  to  drink, 
hard  for  flesh  and  blood  to  endure,  yea,  the  very  things  my 
soul  refused  to  touch,  did  indeed  become  my  sorrowful  meat. 
But  in  all  these  things  is  the  life  of  my  spirit. 

Sixth  Month  15th. — I  arose  this  morning  with  the  sun, 
which  shone  for  a  little  time  with  brightness  and  lustre, 
but  suddenly  its  brightness  was  diminished  and  almost 
totally  obscured  by  a  thick  mist  which  covered  the  whole 
face  of  nature,  as  far  as  mine  eyes  could  reach.  What 
a  striking  illustration  said  I,  is  this  which  I  now  see  in  the 
visible  creation,  of  the  frequent  condition  of  my  own  mind. 
Many  times  when  nothing  is  seen  outwardly,  or  felt  in- 
wardly, to  disquiet  my  feelings,  how  quick,  how  sudden  the 
transition  from  pleasant  to  mournful  reflections  ;  a  moment, 
or  the  effect  of  a  moment,  is  sufficient  to  cause  a  train  of 
unpleasant  feelings  and  reflections  to  accompany  us  through- 
out the  day.  But  why  not  learn  to  wait  patiently  for  the 
arising  of  better  feelings?  Why  not  watch  and  wait  with 
as  much  hope  for  this  inward  tumult  to  subside,  as  for  the 
thick  mist  to  be  dispersed  and  the  enlivening  rays  of  the 
sun  again  to  break  forth  and  scatter  the  gloom  ?  Oh !  that 
I  may  learn  not  to  speak  unadvisedly  with  my  lips,  when 
my  heart  is  full  of  trouble,  when  many  things  inwardly  and 
outwardly  combine  to  ruffle  and  perplex  the  mind.  May 
I  learn  more  and  more  to  trust  in  Him  who  is  able  to  say 
to  the  waves  of  affliction,  "  Hitherto  shalt  thou  go  and  no 
farther."  May  his  power  be  daily  and  hourly  borne  in 


40  JOURNAL    OF  [1840. 

mind,  sought  after  and  waited  for ;  not  only  to  preserve  us 
in  trouble  and  to  rescue  from  temptation,  but  also  to  cleanse 
from  every  defilement.  That,  a&  "the  refining  pot  is  for 
silver  and  the  furnace  for  gold,"  may  I  be  the  better  for  all 
the  troubles,  crosses  and  afflictions  permitted  to  come  upon 
me,  and  prepared  when  done  with  this  state  of  probation 
for  that  "  city  which  hath  foundations,  whose  builder  and 
maker  is  God." 

Second  Month  16th,  1840. — Arrived  safely  home  after 
an  absence  of  four  weeks,  during  which  time  I  have  visited 
in  company  with  my  beloved  father,  the  meetings  and  some 
of  the  families  belonging  to  Salem  and  Springfield  quarters ; 
and  I  may  thankfully  acknowledge  that  Israel's  unslum- 
bering  shepherd  has  not  been  wanting  in  giving  strength 
and  ability  to  pursue  the  path  of  duty,  when  at  times  we 
seemed  almost  ready  to  give  out.  He  is  ever  ready  to  direct 
and  strengthen  those  who  put  their  trust  in  Him.  May  the 
remaining  days  of  my  life  be  spent  to  his  honor  and  glory, 
who  is  ever  worthy.  What  a  feeble  and  unworthy  instru- 
ment am  I  to  be  called  to  proclaim  the  glad  tidings  of  the 
gospel  to  others.  But  the  Lord  hath  a  right  to  make  use 
of  such  instruments  as  He  sees  fit  to  employ  in  his  service, 
"  Male  and  female  all  one  in  Christ."  Therefore  let  none 
shrink  or  give  back,  who  are  thus  called,  but  give  up  un- 
reservedly to  the  Divine  will. 

In  the  Eighth  Month  of  this  year,  1840, 1  obtained  liberty 
of  the  Monthly  and  Quarterly  Meetings  (Flushing  Monthly 
and  Short  Creek  Quarterly)  to  attend  Indiana  Yearly 
Meeting,  and  to  visit  some  of  the  meetings  belonging  there- 
to, and  to  appoint  some  meetings  amongst  those  not  in 
membership  with  us.  My  cousin,  Samuel  Smith  and  my 
aunt  Martha  Holloway  were  my  companions  in  this  visit, — 
both  elders  of  Flushing  Monthly  Meeting.  Two  friends  on 


1840.]  ANN     BRANSON.  41 

horseback  accompanied  us  to  Mount  Gilead,  where  Alum 
Creek  Quarterly  Meeting  is  held.  We  travelled  from 
Smyrna  to  Coshocton,  a  distance  of  forty  miles,  the  first 
day.  It  was  rainy,  the  road  hilly  and  muddy,  and  we  did 
not  get  to  our  lodging  until  after  night.  Before  reaching 
the  town  of  Coshocton,  we  had  to  descend  a  long  hill,  and 
it  being  very  dark,  one  of  the  men  on  horseback  had  to 
dismount  and  feel  for  the  road  with  his  hands.  On  reach- 
ing the  hotel  our  men  friends  observed  several  very  rough 
looking  persons  in  the  bar-room,  and  the  landlord  not  any 
ways  behind  them  in  appearance.  Some  murders  and  out- 
rages having  been  recently  committed  near  this  place,  and 
the  town  not  bearing  a  good  name,  caused  some  anxiety  as 
to  the  safety  of  travellers.  After  supper  my  aunt  a,nd  I 
were  shown  to  our  lodging  room,  which  had  a  lock  to  the 
door ;  we  fastened  ourselves  in  and  slept  well  until  morn- 
ing. Not  so  with  our  men  Friends.  They  were  shown  into 
a  room  having  three  beds  in  it,  without  any  fastening  to 
the  door.  In  one  of  the  beds  lay  a  man  apparently  sound 
asleep,  and  snoring  quite  loud.  Two  of  our  friends  retired 
very  soon,  the  other  staid  reading  for  some  time  in  a  book 
he  found  lying  on  the  stand.  Whilst  he  was  reading,  the 
door  of  their  room  was  pushed  open  and  a  very  rough  look- 
ing man  entered.  On  being  asked  what  he  wanted,  he  made 
no  reply,  but  soon  retreated.  After  the  other  Friend  had 
gone  to  bed,  Samuel  Smith  became  more  uneasy,  and  had 
one  of  the  bedsteads  placed  against  the  door.  During  the 
night  they  found  some  one  was  trying  to  enter  the  room 
by  pushing  at  the  door.  Samuel  Smith  then  called  out  in 
a  loud,  stern  voice,  asking  who  was  at  the  door,  and  what 
was  wanted,  saying  that  he  had  a  mind  to  get  up  and  go 
down  stairs  and  find  out  what  was  going  on,  adding,  here 
is  a  man  in  bed  apparently  asleep  (for  nothing  as  yet  seemed 
4 


42  JOURNAL    OF  [1840. 

to  arouse  him)  and  for  aught  I  know  is  acting  the  opos- 
sum. After  this  all  was  still  until  morning ;  and  at  early 
dawn  we  were  up  making  ready  for  our  escape  from  this 
place.  But  before  leaving,  one  of  the  Friends  observed  on 
the  opposite  side  of  the  street,  the  man  who  had  entered  the 
room  before  they  had  all  retired ;  and  on  making  inquiry 
who  he  was,  no  one  seemed  to  know  him.  Soon  after  we 
were  at  Coshocton,  a  man  and  his  family  stopped  at  this 
hotel  to  tarry  for  a  few  days.  Whilst  there  the  man  was 
murdered. 

Before  we  left  Coshocton,  some  of  our  company  went  to 
view  the  hill  we  had  descended  in  the  dark,  and  found  that 
we  had  passed  over  very  dangerous  ground,  the  wheels  of 
our  carriage  just  escaping  the  precipice.  Thus,  through 
the  mercy  of  our  Heavenly  Father,  we  left  this  town  in 
safety. 

MOUNT  GILEAD,  Ninth  Month  20th,  1840. 

MY  DEAR  FATHER  : — We  are  now  at  the  house  of  our 
friend,  J.  W.  S.  Arrived  here  yesterday  morning  in  time 
for  meeting,  in  good  health  and  without  accident.  As  yet 
I  have  not  regretted  starting  on  this  journey.  Although 
it  has  been  sunshine  thus  far  (in  a  spiritual  sense)  yet  I 
doubt  not  the  clouds  will  be  permitted  to  intervene,  and 
perhaps  continue  many  days  and  nights  on  my  tabernacle. 
Oh,  that  I  may  be  so  watchful,  and  so  favored,  as  to  dwell 
in  the  ward  whole  nights;  not  straining  my  eyes  in  the 
dark,  as  dear  Sarah  Grubb  says,  believing  in  the  Light,  and 
waiting  patiently  for  its  appearance  and  direction. 

Thou,  my  dear  father,  art  much  before  the  view  of  my 
mind,  almost  constantly  when  awake,  and  not  in  meeting. 
It  may  be  thy  spirit  goes  with  us,  I  hope  at  least  thy 
prayers  do. 


1840.]  ANN     BRANSON.  43 

25th. — We  got  to  Alum  Creek  this  morning.  Attended 
their  meeting  for  worship  in  the  forenoon,  and  their  Select 
Preparative  in  the  afternoon. 

It  is  a  low  time,  at  least  it  feels  so  to  me,  and  the  Answers 
to  the  Queries  indicate  the  same  ;  and  I  feel  that  it  is  need- 
ful for  me  to  keep  close  to  the  pointings  of  the  good  Shep- 
herd ;  to  say  nothing  more  nor  less  than  He  requires.  This 
is  what  I  desire  to  do,  and  I  hope  thou  wilt  crave  it  for  me. 

22nd. — Attended  Monthly  Meeting  at  Alum  Creek,  to- 
day. Joseph  Edgerton  and  companion  came  in  after  the 
meeting  was  nearly  gathered.  They  rode  thirty  miles  this 
morning  before  meeting.  John  Wood,  Sr.,  has  been  here, 
but  has  gone  towards  Indiana.  He  had  a  public  meeting 
at  this  place,  and  was  silent  therein.  This  is  the  way  for 
ministers  to  mind  their  steps. 

24th. — We  are  now  at  Goshen,  and  attended  their  Select 
Quarterly  Meeting  to-day.  It  is  quite  sickly  in  these  parts, 
but  our  little  company  keeps  well  and  cheerful,  and  perhaps 
we  may  be  favored  to  escape  all  these  maladies  and  get  safely 
home.  I  am  glad  I  was  at  meeting  to-day.  As  the  bearer 
of  this,  A.  P.,  will  leave  here  to-morrow,  after  Quarterly 
Meeting  closes,  before  I  have  time  to  add  anything  to  this, 
I  must  bid  farewell. 

Affectionately  thy  daughter, 

ANN  BRANSON. 
EICHMOND,  INDIANA,  Ninth  Mo.  27th,  1840. 

MY  DEAR  FATHER: — This  morning  arrived  at  this  place, 
having  Daniel  Wood  for  our  pilot  from  Goshen.  Yesterday 
we  fell  in  company  with  John  Wood  from  New  York.  He 
appeared  glad  to  see  us  and  thou  knowest  we  were  glad  to 
meet  with  him. 

29th. — To-day  attended  the  select  Yearly  Meeting  of  min- 
isters and  elders.  Truly  things  are  at  a  low  ebb  here ;  much 


44  JOURNALOF  [1840- 

more  so  than  I  had  any  idea  of  before  coming.  The  true 
Israelitish  seed  is  pressed  as  a  cart  loaded  with  sheaves ;  I 
hope  to  be  preserved  in  faith  and  patience.  My  soul  feels 
in  jeopardy.  Pray  thou  for  us,  and  for  me,  in  an  especial 
manner.  A.  B. 

30th. — To-day  a  public  meeting  was  held.  I  thought  it 
was  remarkably  favored.  A  living  ministry  being  largely 
exercised  therein  by  John  Wood  and  E.  K.  The  doctrines 
of  our  religious  Society  were  opened  with  clearness  and  per- 
tinency. What  a  favor  it  is  that  some  (I  trust  many)  are 
still  preserved  on  the  Ancient  Foundation  against  which  the 
storms  and  tempests  cannot  prevail.  My  feelings  I  cannot 
describe,  on  contemplating  the  goodness  and  tender  mercy 
of  the  Lord  towards  a  gainsaying  and  rebellious  people  as 
we  are. 

Tenth  Month  1st. — This  morning  the  Select  Meeting  again 
convened,  and  I  had  to  express  my  belief  that  there  was 
something  at  work  like  the  mole  underground,  to  sap  and 
undermine  the  foundation  of  our  religious  Society ;  and  I 
had  to  warn  Friends  against  its  insidious  working.  It  seemed 
to  me,  that  I  saw  this  spirit  at  work,  with  my  spiritual  eye, 
as  plainly  as  I  could  discern  with  my  natural  eyes  the  work- 
ings of  the  mole  when  it  is  seen  burrowing  in  the  earth  and 
trying  to  hide  itself  from  observation.  Several  living  testi- 
monies were  borne  in  this  meeting  to  the  honor  and,  I  trust, 
to  the  promotion  of  the  Truth.  The  Meeting  for  Business 
in  the  afternoon  was  large  and  crowded.  In  the  evening 
attended  a  meeting  of  the  African  Committee.  All  were  at 
liberty  to  attend  who  chose  to  do  so.  One  end  of  the  Yearly 
Meeting  house  was  nearly  filled,  and  it  was  indeed  a  time 
of  disorder  and  confusion.  It  was  soon  evident  that  two 
parties  had  met,  with  sentiments  and  feelings  very  adverse 


1840.]  ANN    BRANSON.  45 

one  to  the  other.  One  party  believed  that  Friends  ought 
not  to  use  the  products  of  slave  labor,  and  endeavored  to 
show  the  necessity,  propriety,  and  practicability,  of  abstain- 
ing therefrom  ;  pressing  their  sentiments  in  a  way  and  man- 
ner, which  gave  evidence  that  many  of  them  were  actuated 
by  a  wrong  spirit,  and  that  their  zeal  was  not  according  to 
true  knowledge.  Some  of  those  who  opposed  them  were 
also  vehement  in  their  expressions  of  opposition,  and  evinced 
a  disposition  far  from  that  which  characterizes  the  true 
Christian. 

The  confusion,  and  I  might  say  uproar,  which  we  wit- 
nessed on  this  occasion,  reminded  me  of  what  is  recorded  in 
the  New  Testament,  when  the  cry  was,  "  Great  is  Diana  of 
the  Ephesians." 

The  Yearly  Meeting  closed  on  Third -day  of  the  second 
week.  Richmond  Mid-week  Meeting  was  next  day,  which 
I  attended,  and  had  religious  service  therein,  to  the  relief 
and  peace  of  my  mind.  John  Wood  was  also  there  and 
had  good  service.  His  speech  and  his  preaching  are  not 
with  "  enticing  words  of  man's  wisdom  but  in  demonstration 
of  the  Spirit  and  of  power." 

From  Richmond  we  went  to  Alum  Creek,  and  I  asked 
and  obtained  liberty  of  the  Monthly  Meeting  to  visit  some 
families  within  their  limits.  At  Greenwich  there  had  been 
a  large  meeting,  consisting  of  many  young  and  youngish 
people,  and  some  aged  ones.  But  some  disagreement  arising 
among  the  heads  of  the  meeting  it  had  been  laid  down,  and 
this  neighborhood  was  without  a  Friends'  Meeting.  It  was 
in  this  locality  I  visited  families,  and  endeavored  to  lay  be- 
fore Friends  the  necessity  of  each  and  every  one  doing  his 

NOTE. — This  dissension  continued  in  Indiana  Yearly  Meeting  until 
a  separation  was  brought  about,  which  occurred  in  a  few  years  after 
the  above  record. 


46  JOURNAL   or  [1840. 

and  her  part  towards  healing  the  breaches  that  had  been 
made ;  so  that  peace  and  harmony  might  be  restored.  I 
had  heard  nothing  about  the  cause  of  the  difficulty  nor  who 
was  implicated  therein,  but  during  the  visit,  I  was  led  to 
speak  very  plainly  to  some  who  I  believed  were  causing 
trouble.  One  of  this  description,  after  our  visit  was  over, 
offered  to  pilot  us  to  another  neighborhood,  and  was  very 
friendly.  After  my  return  home  I  was  told  that  some  of 
the  disaffected  members  who  had  caused  the  most  trouble, 
endeavored  to  make  friends  (who  were  laboring  to  restore 
peace  and  harmony  amongst  them)  believe,  that  I  was  in 
unity  and  fellowship  with  them;  speaking  in  strong  terms 
of  approbation  of  the  family  visit.  Amongst  those  was  the 
individual  who  offered  his  services  as  pilot,  But  in  a  short 
time  this  man  was  taken  dangerously  ill  and  was  nigh  unto 
death.  He  then  confessed  that  I  compared  him  to  Judas 
when  I  visited  him  and  his  family.  Thus  the  eyes  of  some 
Friends  who  had  been  blinded,  were  opened  to  see  that  I 
had  not  been  engaged  in  strengthening  a  perverse  and  con- 
tentious spirit. 

Whilst  I  was  out  on  this  visit  I  had  an  appointed  meet- 
ing at  Urbana,  the  capitol  of  Champaign  Co.,  Ohio,  which 
was  held  to  good  satisfaction.  In  this  meeting  I  was  led  to 
speak  on  the  subject  of  war — the  peaceable  nature  of  the 
Gospel — and  the  incompatibility  of  war  with  the  precepts 
of  our  Saviour,  &c.  It  was  marvellous  in  mine  eyes  how 
the  Lord  gave  me  strength  and  wisdom  to  treat  this  subject. 
It  being  court  week  many  of  the  principal  men  of  the  county 
were  at  the  meeting,  and  it  was  a  favored  opportunity.  I 
also  appointed  a  meeting  at  Troy,  the  capitol  of  Miami  Co., 
Ohio.  This  meeting  was  held  in  the  Methodist  Meeting- 
house ;  and  being  induced  by  the  judgment  of  another,  con- 
trary to  my  own  sense  of  propriety,  to  take  my  seat  in  the 


1841.]  ANN    BRANSON.  47 

pulpit,  which  was  a  very  elevated  one,  the  meeting  was  not 
so  satisfactory  as  it  might  have  been  had  I  attended  to  the 
intimations  of  duty  on  my  own  mind.  I  would  encourage 
ministers  to  attend  strictly  to  the  intimations  of  truth  on 
their  own  minds,  and  not  to  be  improperly  influenced  in 
such  cases  by  others  who  may  not  feel  the  same  scruples. 

Fourth  Month  26th,  1841.— Thou  only  knowest,  oh  holy 
Father,  for  what  purpose  thou  permittest  the  overflowing 
surge  thus  often  to  come  upon  me.  Yet  I  thank  thee,  and 
can  this  moment  acknowledge,  that  it  is  thy  arm  of  power, 
that  only  and  alone  can  sustain  me  in  these  proving  con- 
flicts ;  for  hadst  thou  not  interposed  when  the  enemy  has 
come  in  like  a  flood,  I  had  been  entirely  undone,  my  confi- 
dence had  failed,  my  foot  had  slidden  into  the  gulf  of  de- 
spair. I  had  fainted  had  not  thy  mercy  upheld  me,  and 
given  me  to  believe,  that  I  should  yet  see  and  feel  thy  good- 
ness in  the  land  of  the  living. 

Fifth  Month  7th. — Teach  me,  oh  Lord,  to  number  my 
days  and  to  apply  my  heart  unto  wisdom.  Few  think 
enough  about  the  termination  of  their  existence  here  below; 
and  the  certainty  of  the  coming  of  that  moment  when  we 
shall  hear  the  language — "  Come  ye  blessed  of  my  Father, 
inherit  the  kingdom  prepared  for  you  from  the  foundation 
of  the  world:"  or  "Depart  from  me,  ye  cursed,  into  ever- 
lasting fire,  prepared  for  the  devil  and  his  angels."  I  some- 
times think  my  life  is  such  a  continual  state  of  conflict  and 
trial,  that  perhaps  the  sands  in  my  hour-glass  are  nearly 
run.  But  if  these  trials  and  conflicts  only  tend  to  purify 
and  refine  me,  I  shall  be  very  thankful  that  they  have  been 
dispensed. 

It  is  not  wealth,  riches,  or  the  honor  of  this  world  that  I 
crave.  It  is  not  change  of  place  or  outward  circumstances 
that  will  make  me  happy,  but  it  is  a  mind  resigned  to  do 


48  JOURNAL    OF  [1842. 

the  Lord's  will,  to  follow  Him  whithersoever  He  is  pleased 
to  lead.  This  is  what  I  desire  more  than  any  earthly  gain. 

But  if  this  had  been  enough  my  concern  for  some  years 
past,  I  should  have  been  further  advanced  in  my  journey 
Zionward,  I  should  have  been  more  resigned  to  the  will  of 
God,  and  more  helpful  in  the  Church  Militant.  Oh  Lord, 
sanctify  me  thoroughly,  that  I  may  once  more  behold  thy 
glory  and  the  excellency  of  thy  kingdom  as  in  days  past, 
and  be  prepared  through  mercy  to  ascribe  all  honor,  glory, 
and  thanksgiving  unto  thee  unto  whom  it  belongs  forever 
and  forevermore.  Amen. 

Eleventh  Month  2nd,  1842. — In  taking  a  retrospect  of 
the  time  past  since  the  foregoing  was  written,  I  find  that 
much  of  it  has  been  spent  under  deep  mental  conflict  which 
language  cannot  fully  describe,  yet  not  without  some  mo- 
ments and  hours  of  sunshine  interspersed  amidst  the  gloom. 
"  For  all  I  bless  thee  most  for  the  severe,"  is  the  language 
that  now  pervades  my  heart ;  I  bless,  praise  and  magnify 
the  name  of  the  Lord,  that  He  hath  been  pleased  to  try  me 
and  prove  me  as  in 'the  night  season — to  withdraw  the  light 
of  his  countenance  from  me,  and  to  enable  me  to  feel  and 
discover  by  his  holy  Spirit,  my  utter  inability  of  myself  to 
keep  my  place  or  habitation  in  the  Truth.  Oh,  holy  Father, 
forgive,  I  beseech  thee,  the  impatience  of  my  spirit  under 
those  close  and  proving  seasons,  and  teach  me  to  abide  pa- 
tiently the  turnings  of  thy  holy  hand  upon  me,  until  all  the 
dross,  tin,  and  reprobate  silver  are  consumed.  Oh  the  un- 
speakable joy  of  that  soul  at  times,  whose  meat  and  drink 
it  is,  to  do  the  will  of  our  Father  in  Heaven.  Blessed, 
praised  and  adored  be  his  holy  name  forever,  and  let  all  the 
world  say  amen  ;  for  He  raiseth  up  the  poor  from  the  dung- 
hill, He  hath  compassion  on  the  work  of  his  hands,  He  hath 
many  and  many  a  time  plucked  my  feet  out  of  the  miry 


1843.]  ANN     BRANSON.  49 

clay,  and  from  the  horrible  pit  hath  He  again  and  again 
rescued  me,  even  from  the  pit  of  despair,  into  which  I  should 
inevitably  have  sunk  forever,  had  not  the  Lord  heard  my 
cry,  and  regarded  the  groanings  of  my  spirit. 

Twelfth  Month  25th. — It  is  a  day  of  peculiar  trial  to  the 
rightly-exercised  members  of  our  religious  Society.  Many 
amongst  us  who  once  stood  in  conspicuous  stations,  and  who 
were  looked  upon  as  waymarks,  have  joined  as  conspirators 
against  the  true  Israel.  Oh  Lord  God  of  Hosts  be  pleased 
to  turn  thine  hand  upon  the  little  ones,  and  raise  up  judges 
as  at  the  first,  and  counsellors  as  in  the  beginning,  and  give 
not  thy  heritage  wholly  to  reproach.  May  it  please  thee  to 
open  the  eyes  of  the  young  people  who  are  dismayed  at  the 
host  that  have  encamped  against  thy  devoted  servants,  and 
against  the  blessed  Truth  as  professed  and  upheld  by  our 
worthy  predecessors.  May  it  please  thee  to  open  the  eyes 
of  the  young  and  rising  generation,  who  are  honestly  con- 
cerned for  the  support  of  our  principles  and  testimonies,  as 
thou  didst  the  eyes  of  the  servant  of  Elisha,  to  see  thy  pre- 
serving power  round  about  them  who  fear  thee :  and  that 
thou  sendest  them  help  from  thy  sanctuary,  enabling  them 
to  overcome  their  spiritual  enemies,  and  to  put  to  flight  the 
armies  of  the  aliens  who  rise  up  to  oppose  the  truth  as  it  is 
in  Jesus. 

May  the  precious  young  people  who  are  dismayed  at  the 
signs  of  the  times,  and  who  are  crying  out,  "  what  shall  we 
do;  who  shall  show  us  any  good?"  be  enabled  to  know  for 
themselves  the  truth  and  the  life  as  it  is  in  Jesus,  and  come 
to  walk  therein. 

Twelfth  Month  4th,  1843.— There  is  now  a  spirit  of  liber- 
tinism rearing  its  head  very  high  in  many  places.  My  spirit 
is  grieved  therewith,  and  earnestly  have  I  desired,  that  I 
may  be  clear  of  promoting  this  spirit  in  anywise,  either  by 


50  JOURNALOF  [1844. 

injudicious  remarks  concerning  it,  or  by  withholding,  when 
required  to  speak  a  word  of  caution,  counsel  or  rebuke  to 
those  who  are  indulging  therein.  What  sorrow  does  it  give 
to  those  who  are  concerned  to  promote  right  things  in  the 
church  !  How  it  lays  waste  all  right  feelings,  in  the  minds 
of  those  who  give  up  to  be  led  thereby.  Great  pretensions 
are  being  made  by  such  to  promote  the  truth  ;  when  their 
whole  course  of  conduct  is  directly  opposed  thereto. 

"  My  soul,  come  not  thou  unto  their  secret,  mine  honor 
be  thou  not  united  to  their  assembly," — for  in  their  anger 
have  they  persecuted  the  righteous,  "  and  in  their  self  will 
have  they  digged  down  a  wall."  Those  who  will  not  sub- 
mit to  their  wily  working,  and  insidious  planning  and  plot- 
ting against  the  truth  and  its  testimonies,  and  against  those 
who  stand  up  and  oppose  them  in  a  Christian  spirit,  are 
trampled,  as  it  were,  under  foot;  and  those  who  are  led 
captive  by  them,  lose  their  spiritual  life,  unless  rescued  by 
Divine  interposition.  They  do  indeed  dig  down  a  wall, 
they  would  lay  waste  all  right,  order  and  government  in 
the  church,  and  I  would  not  wonder  if  many  of  them  should 
become  open  ranters,  with  no  foundation  in  the  truth  to  rest 
upon. 

Second  Month  3rd,  1844. — I  feel  very  weak  and  low  in 
body  and  mind.  Oh,  that  Thou  wouldst  support,  gracious 
Father,  in  these  times  of  trial,  when  bodily  health  and 
strength  are  sinking  low. 

Third  Month.  26th. — On  reading  the  Journal  of  Thomas 
Scattergood,  my  heart  hath  been  bowed  and  contrited  in 
consideration  of  his  deeply  tried  path,  particularly  in  Eng- 
land ;  and  in  considering,  too,  that  the  Lord  is  able  to  keep 
them,  who  submit  to  his  wonder-working  power  in  the  tem- 
ple of  their  hearts,  from  fainting  and  giving  out  under  the 
fiery  baptisms  necessary  for  their  own  refinement,  and  for 
the  sake  of  the  Church. 


1844.]  ANN     BRANSON.  51 

May  I  be  more  willing  to  acquiesce  in  the  dispensations 
of  extreme  poverty  of  spirit,  weakness  and  desertion,  which 
my  Heavenly  Father  hath  been  pleased  to  dispense  unto 
me,  a  poor  unworthy  worm  of  the  dust.  How  easy  and 
possible  it  is  for  us  to  conclude  in  seasons  of  plenty  and 
Divine  favor,  that  we  could  bear  these  strippings  and  deser- 
tions with  Christian  patience  and  meekness,  but  when  they 
come,  who  is  able  to  endure  them  rightly?  Surely  none 
without  the  sustaining  help  of  the  Lord. 

Eighth  Month  20th. — It  has  been  nearly  two  months 
since  I  have  been  out  of  the  house,  except  once,  having 
been  confined  to  my  room,  and  most  of  the  time  to  my  bed, 
during  that  period,  by  severe  bodily  illness;  and,  oh,  the 
poverty  of  spirit  my  Heavenly  Father  hath  been  pleased  to 
dispense  during  this  illness  ;  so  that  the  cry  of  my  spirit  by 
day  and  night  could  only  be,  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  me, 
mercy,  unmerited  mercy,  is  all  that  I  have  to  depend  upon. 
That  mercy  that  cometh  through  Jesus  Christ  my  Lord 
and  Saviour !  What  will  any  poor  creature  do,  who  denies 
the  blessed  Saviour!  Surely  the  end  of  such  a  one  must 
be  miserable,  unless  favored  to  experience  true  repentance 
before  taken  hence. 

Ninth  Month  8th. — My  health  is  so  far  recovered  as  to 
attend  our  Yearly  Meeting  held  last  week.  I  sat  all  the 
sittings  through  in  much  bodily  weakness,  sometimes  two 
sittings  a  day.  But  shall  I  say  it  was  to  me  a  time  of  re- 
joicing? Nay,  verily,  this  language  was  almost  constantly 
with  me  during  the  week,  on  this  wise,  "  My  soul  is  exceed- 
ing so'rrowful,  even  unto  death."  It  appears  to  me  that  we 
will  have  to  be  searched  from  head  to  foot,  and  the  superfi- 
cial daubing  removed.  Oh,  that  we  were  the  recipients  of 
Divine  regard  to  that  extent  which  has  been  spoken  of. 
It  seems  to  me  that  the  wounds,  bruises  and  putrefying  sores 


52  JOURNAL    OF  [1844. 

will  have  to  be  searched  to  the  bottom,  before  we  can  say 
"  the  Lord  reigneth,  let  the  earth  rejoice ;"  Let  us  rather 
say  at  this  time,  "The  Lord  is  in  his  holy  habitation,  let 
all  the  earth  keep  silence." 

llth.  —  It  remains  with  me  more  fully  to  commemo- 
rate the  loving  kindness  of  the  Lord,  and  his  wonder-work- 
ing power  manifested  towards  me  during  my  late  sore 
affliction ;  so  that  it  appeared  plain  to  me  that  miracles 
have  not  ceased.  When  under  great  bodily  weakness  and 
suffering,  and  but  little  prospect,  if  any,  of  recovery,  this 
language,  "  I  will  come  and  heal  thee,"  seemed  the  constant 
companion  of  my  mind  for  some  days ;  and  when  for  a 
moment  a  doubt  would  arise  as  to  my  recovery,  this  would 
present,  "  Have  faith  in  God."  Oh,  it  is  his  power,  which 
bringeth  to  pass  great  and  wonderful  things,  and  when  my 
bodily  strength  was  so  nearly  exhausted  in  attending  our 
late  Yearly  Meeting  (as  well  as  at  other  times)  that  I 
seemed  ready  to  sink^to  the  floor,  this  language,  "I  will 
help  thee,  I  will  strengthen  thee,"  has  greatly  revived  me  ; 
being  made  at  the  same  time  a  partaker  of  the  promise.  So 
that  I  feel  bound  to  say,  the  Lord  hath  been  very  gracious 
to  me  every  way.  Oh,  that  I  may  in  true  simplicity  and 
faith  unfeigned,  learn  to  trust  in  Him  at  all  times,  dedica- 
ting my  whole  heart  unto  Him,  and  my  body  to  his  service; 
for  "  surely  I  had  fainted  unless  I  had  believed  to  see  the 
goodness  of  the  Lord  in  the  land  of  the  living."  In  regard 
to  attending  religious  meetings,  I  may  say  without  boasting 
that  I  have  not  wilfully  or  knowingly  neglected  my  duty 
herein ;  but  have  often  gone,  when,  if  I  had  leaned  to  my 
own  understanding,  I  should  have  concluded  it  impossible, 
or  impracticable,  so  that  the  language  of  my  heart  is  at 
this  time,  "Trust  in  the  Lord,  oh,  my  soul,  for  in  the  Lord 
Jehovah  is  everlasting  strength." 


1844.]  ANN    BRANSON.  53 

Tenth  Month  2nd. — Attended  a  neighboring  Monthly 
Meeting  last  Second-day,  in  which  my  mind  was  much 
engaged  for  some  present,  amongst  the  young  and  middle- 
aged,  and  I  had  to  revive  the  language,  "Walk  about 
Zion,  and  go  round  about  her ;  tell  the  towers  thereof. 
Mark  ye  well  her  bulwarks,  consider  her  palaces ;  that  ye 
may  tell  it  to  the  generation  following."  Expressing  my 
belief  that  there  were  those  present  who  were  thus  called 
upon  to  become  acquainted  with  Zion,  that  they  might  tell 

it  to  the  generations  following.  Dear followed  in 

supplication,  and  earnestly  besought  the  Lord  on  behalf 
of  some  present,  that  they  might  be  enabled  to  walk  about 
Zion,  &c.  I  thought  we  had  a  good  meeting;  dined  at 
Thomas  and  Anna  Edgerton's,  who  had  recently  been  be- 
reaved of  their  dear  mother  and  only  brother  by  death. 
Before  leaving  their  household,  I  felt  constrained  to  bow 
in  vocal  supplication  on  their  behalf,  as  well  as  my  own. 
I  know  not  that  I  ever  felt  more  earnest  and  fervent  in 
prayer  to  the  Father  of  all  our  sure  mercies,  that  He  would 
be  pleased  to  remember  the  prayers  and  exercise  of  departed 
Friends  on  behalf  of  those  left  behind,  and  prepare  us  to 
meet  in  heaven,  those  with  whom  we  had  taken  sweet  coun- 
sel, and  who  had  earnestly  prayed  and  labored  for  our 
preservation  and  safe  landing.  Oh,  how  impressively  was 
my  sister  Deborah's  prayer,  which  she  uttered  just  before 
her  death,  brought  before  the  view  of  my  mind  at  this  time, 
beseeching  the  Lord  to  preserve  her  sisters  in  the  hollow  of 
his  holy  hand.  And  truly,  in  a  wonderful  manner,  has  this 
prayer  been  answered  in  regard  to  those  who  have  since 
been  removed  from  works  to  rewards. 

Lodged  that  night  at  the  house  of  our  friend,  J.  E.  In 
the  morning  the  family  were  collected,  as  is  their  usual 
practice,  and  a  portion  of  Scripture  read.  This  portion  of 


54  JOURNAL    OF  [1845. 

which  sauk  deep  into  my  mind,  viz :  "  Oh,  that  men  would 
praise  the  Lord  for  his  goodness,  and  for  his  wonderful 
works  to  the  children  of  men."  On  considering  the  great 
deliverances  He  has  wrought  for  his  people  in  different 
ages,  and  his  goodness  and  mercy  towards  my  own  soul, 
this  language  did  indeed  become  the  language  of  my  heart, 
and  my  spirit  was  contrited  within  me. 


CHAPTER    III. 

PREVALENCE  OF  ERYSIPELAS  FEVER — DEATH  OF  HER  FATHER — EXERCISES 
IN  HER  OWN  MEETING,  AND  ON  BEHALF  OF  INDIVIDUALS  ABOUT  HOME — 
STARVATION  IN  IRELAND — A  RELIGIOUS  VISIT  IN  HER  OWN  QUARTERLY 
MEETING — THE  BEGINNING  OF  THE  TROUBLE  OF  GURNEYISM. 

Third  Month  10th,  1845. — A  wasting  disease  is  in  this 
part  of  our  land.  Many  have  been  called  from  works  to 
rewards  within  a  short  space  of  time.  Oh,  may  this  awful 
dispensation  teach  those  who  survive  to  apply  their  hearts 
unto  wisdom.  This  disease  is  called  the  "  black  tongue  or 
erysipelas  fever." 

Fourth  Month  4th. — This  hath  been  to  me  a  day  of 
uncommon  temptation  and  trial,  so  that  I  have  been  forci- 
bly reminded  of  that  which  is  recorded  in  Holy  Scripture 
when  the  Prophet  saw  Joshua  the  high  priest,  standing,  and 
Satan  on  his  right  hand  to  resist  him.  Strength  seemed 
just  afforded  to-day  in  meeting  to  cry  in  secret,  "The  Lord 
rebuke  O  Satan."  May  it  please  Thee,  oh,  gracious  God, 
never  to  permit  me  to  cast  away  my  confidence  in  Thee,  as 
the  enemy  is  tempting  me  to  do;  but,  oh,  be  pleased  to 
rebuke  him,  for  Thou  knowest  the  desire  of  my  heart  is  to 
serve  Thee  only  and  alone. 

Sixth  Month  31st. — On  the  27th  of  this  month,  my  be- 


1845.]  ANN     BRANSON.  55 

loved  father  departed  this  life ;  a  lingering  disease  had  for 
some  time  threatened  the  termination  thereof.  He  died  in 
great  sweetness,  expressing  a  well  grounded  hope  that 
through  the  Lord's  mercy  his  end  would  be  peace ;  saying 
that  he  trusted  that  He  who  cared  for  the  sparrows,  would 
care  for  him.  My  spirit  deeply  feels  the  stroke,  and  although 
it  was  not  unexpected,  it  is  hard  to  be  bereaved  of  a  tender 
parent,  who  in  advanced  age  retained  his  faculties,  and 
whose  daily  concern  was  that  all  things  might  be  done 
decently  and  in  order,  both  with  respect  to  spiritual  and 
temporal  things.  To  part  with  such  a  parent,  especially 
at  the  present  time  of  great  liberty  and  libertinism  in  our 
Society,  is  a  severe  stroke.  Centre  down,  oh,  my  soul,  into 
a  state  of  solemn  inquiry,  whether  thou  art  prepared  to 
render  up  thy  accounts  with  joy.  Oh,  Thou  who  hast 
taken  from  me  my  dearest  earthly  treasure,  be  pleased  to 
prepare  me  to  follow,  though  it  may  be  through  great  tribu- 
lation. 

Tenth  Mouth  31st. — Oh,  Thou  who  only  can  rightly 
prepare  our  hearts  to  offer  the  tribute  of  praise,  or  to  pray 
acceptably  to  Thee,  Thou  knowest  my  soul  is  sorely  tried 
and  tempted.  Be  pleased  to  enable  me  to  bear  the  turnings 
and  overturnings  of  thy  holy  hand  upon  me,  and  enable 
me  to  see,  and  to  escape  the  snares  of  the  wicked  one.  Be 
pleased  to  deliver  me  from  the  "  snare  of  the  fowler,  and 
from  the  noisome  pestilence,  that  walketh  at  noonday," 
even  the  pestilence  of  darkness  and  deceit  that  is  taking 
captive  and  slaying  so  many  of  this  once  highly  favored 
society,  oh,  slay  not  all  in  thy  wrath,  but  in  wrath  remem- 
ber mercy. 

Eleventh  Month  2nd. — I  sat  silent  in  our  meeting  to-day, 
which  is  most  commonly  the  case.  Oh,  that  I  may  never  dare 
to  move  in  the  line  of  the  ministry  without  a  fresh  anoint- 


56  JOURNAL    OF  [1845. 

ing  for  the  work  and  service ;  for  I  have  seen  a  snare  which 
the  enemy  has  laid  and  is  laying,  to  catch  the  feet  of  min- 
isters of  our  religious  Society  ;  insinuating  into  their  minds, 
and  into  the  minds  of  others,  that  to  wait  for  such  a  renewed 
qualification,  and  putting  forth  from  time  to  time  of  the 
good  Shepherd  of  his  sheep,  in  the  work  of  the  ministry,  is 
not  essentially  necessary,  nor  to  be  insisted  upon  to  such  a 
degree,  as  was  upheld  and  maintained  by  early  Friends.  In 
the  day  of  my  espousals,  in  hours  of  extremity,  and  times 
never  to  be  forgotten,  the  Lord  opened  my  understanding 
by  his  own  illuminating  power  and  spirit,  to  see  the  nature 
and  worth  of  true  spiritual  and  living  ministry ;  and  how 
all  who  are  called  and  chosen  as  the  ministers  of  Christ, 
must  of  necessity  know  a  repeated  and  thorough  washing 
in  the  river  of  judgment,  and  experience  the  axe  laid  to  the 
root  of  the  corrupt  tree,  -and  all  that  his  righteous  contro- 
versy is  with  eradicated  from  the  temple  of  the  heart.  Oh, 
what  sweet  unity,  sympathy  and  fellowship  did  my  spirit 
feel  in  those  days  with  our  early  Friends,  who  bore  the 
scorn,  scoffings,  and  persecutions  of  the  highly  professing 
Christians  of  that  day  ;  and  it  was  then  given  me  clearly 
to  see,  that  if  we  in  this  day  of  ease  to  the  flesh,  and  liberty 
of  conscience,  would,  and  do,  maintain,  our  principles  and 
testimonies  inviolate  (as  did  our  first  Friends),  we  must 
assuredly  come  to  experience  as  they  did,  a  going  down 
into  suffering  and  death  with  Christ ;  that  as  "  he  was  raised 
from  the  dead  by  the  glory  of  the  Father,  so  we  also  should 
walk  in  newness  of  life."  Oh,  how  was  I  then  given  to  see 
in  the  visions  of  the  eternal  light  and  glory  of  the  dear 
Son  and  Sent  of  God — the  Lord  Jesus  Christ — into  the 
fallen,  degenerate  and  dead  condition  of  man  by  nature ;  yea, 
the  Lord  gave  me  sensibly  to  feel,  and  powerfully  too,  that 
Adam  after  he  ate  of  the  forbidden  fruit,  lost  all  his  sight 


1845.]  ANN     BRANSON.  57 

and  sense  of  good  spiritually,  and  that  he  had  nothing  in 
his  nature  left,  whereby  he  could  seek  after,  or  desire  the 
presence  of  his  Creator,  from  whom  he  hid  himself  in  the 
day  of  his  transgression.  And  although  I  had  read  this 
account  in  the  Holy  Scriptures,  and  never  did  otherwise 
than  assent  to  the  truth  thereof,  as  far  as  my  natural  under- 
standing could  embrace  it,  yet  until  my  Heavenly  Father, 
in  his  great  and  wonderful  dealings  with  me,  gave  me  to 
see  and  feel  the  state  of  man  in  the  fall,  as  clearly  set  forth 
in  the  writings  of  early  Friends,  agreeably  to  Scripture  testi- 
mony, but  especially  in  Barclay's  Apology,  it  had  remained 
a  mystery  to  me,  and  must  have  remained  a  mystery,  had 
not  the  Lord  revealed  it  to  me  by  his  own  power  and  holy 
spirit. 

Also  man's  restoration  and  redemption  out  of  the  fall  by 
that  one  offering  of  Himself  on  the  cross,  made  by  our  Lord 
Jesus  Christ,  in  its  two-fold  nature,  was  clearly  revealed 
to  me  at  that  time.  Oh,  happy  day  of  gospel  light  and 
gospel  power.  I  saw  clearly  that  our  justification  goes  no 
farther  than  our  sanctification  ;  that  sanctification  must  and 
does  precede  justification,  according  to  the  words  of  the 
Apostle,  "  But  ye  are  washed,  but  ye  are  sanctified,  but  ye 
are  justified  in  the  name  of  the  Lord  Jesus  and  by  the  Spirit 
of  our  God." 

Eleventh  Month  5th.— I  sat  in  our  meeting  to-day  under 
much  exercise  and  concern  that  I  might  not  withhold  any 
thing  given  me  for  others.  Some  having  expressed  concern, 
and  wonder  that  my  mouth  is  so  generally  closed  in  our 
meetings  for  worship.  I  clearly  saw  that  I  might  arise 
under  a  great  weight  of  exercise,  which  this  day  as  well  as 
at  many  other  times,  has  impressed  my  mind ;  that  we  as 
a  people,  once  eminently  favored  to  experience  heavenly 
good,  might  more  and  more  seek  for  ability  to  worship  God 
5 


58  JOURNAL     OF  [1845. 

in  spirit  and  in  truth,  feeling  strong  desires  in  my  heart 
that  the  life  and  power  of  religion  might  be  duly  sought 
after,  believing  if  this  was  the  case,  we  would  feel  our  heav- 
enly Father's  presence  amongst  us,  to  the  comforting  and 
strengthening  of  our  hearts,  when  thus  assembled ;  but 
waiting  to  hear  the  word  of  command  on  this  wise,  "  Give 
ye  them  to  eat,"  I  felt  that  I  had  not  that  command  given 
that  would  warrant  utterance.  May  I  ever  dwell  so  low 
and  humble  as  to  be  preserved  from  sinning  with  my  lips 
in  the  congregation  of  the  Lord's  people.  For  when  minis- 
ters begin  to  lean  to  their  own  understanding,  and  warm 
themselves  with  sparks  of  their  own  kindling,  who  can  tell 
where  the  end  may  be  ?  I  do  not  say  or  think  that  I  have 
always  been  careful  to  wait  for  sufficient  clearness  as  to  the 
subject,  the  time  when  to  speak  and  when  to  stop.  And  I 
have  been  deficient  with  respect  to  my  manner  of  speaking, 
sometimes  speaking  too  loud  and  too  fast,  so  as  to  dimin- 
ish the  weight  of  that  which  otherwise  might  have  been 
more  profitable.  Oh !  that  by  increasing  attention  to  the 
Master's  voice,  I  may  become  what  He  would  have  me  to 
be,  and  experience  the  silence  of  all  flesh  in  such  assemblies. 
7th. — Visited  a  sick  friend,  who  appears  to  be  near  the 
winding  up  of  her  earthly  pilgrimage.  I  could  feelingly 
sympathize  with  her  when  she  complained  of  a  feeling  of 
great  destitution,  having  felt  myself  for  some  time  past  like 
a  pelican  of  the  wilderness.  But  upon  the  friend's  saying, 
"  Oh !  that  thou  wouldst  get  down  and  feel  with  me,  and 
see  how  poor  and  destitute  I  am,"  the  spirit  of  supplication 
seemed  poured  out  upon  me,  and  this  language  was  silently 
though  powerfully  breathed  forth,  "Lord,  Thou  knowest 
how  frail  and  destitute  we  are,  not  able  of  ourselves  to 
breathe  one  living  desire  unto  Thee ;  Oh !  have  mercy  upon 
us,  and  .help  us,  if  it  be  thy  holy  will."  After  which,  a 


1845.]  ANN     BRANSON.  59 

sensible  feeling  of  consolation  was  extended,  and  towards 
evening  the  sick  friend  remarked,  what  a  comfortable  after- 
noon this  has  been ;  on  being  asked  in  what  respect,  she 
replied,  "  In  almost  every  way."  Oh  !  that  it  may  be  my 
constant  concern  to  keep  the  word  of  his  patience  who 
afflicteth  not  willingly,  nor  grieveth  the  children  of  men 
but  who  in  all  the  fiery  trials  and  baptisms  which  He  per- 
mitteth  to  come  upon  them  whilst  the  day  of  their  visitation 
lasteth,  hath  their  sanctification  in  view. 

When  He  withdraweth  his  sensible  presence  from  me 
and  veils  the  light  of  his  glorious  countenance,  may  I  never 
make  an  image,  but  abide  in  the  furnace  through  these 
proving  conflicts  until  He  is  pleased  to  return,  or  again 
show  Himself  for  my  comfort.  I  felt  this  day  a  song  of 
praise  to  pervade  my  heart  for  the  goodness  of  the  Lord 
and  for  his  wonderful  works  to  the  children  of  men. 

Same  date. — I  had  a  visit  from  two  Hicksite  cousins. 
Before  they  left  I  felt  it  right  to  tell  them,  that  I  believed 
there  was  no  other  name  given  under  heaven,  whereby  we 
can  be  saved,  but  by  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ  of  Nazareth  ; 
that  it  is  through  and  by  Him  we  must  experience  re- 
demption, if  we  ever  experience  it,  &c.  They  appeared 
to  receive  kindly  what  I  had  to  say,  and  the  opportunity 
ended  to  satisfaction,  so  far  that  I  felt  relieved  of  a  burden 
that  rested  on  my  mind  on  their  account. 

12th. — Had  some  conversation  with  an  individual  who 
is  under  conviction  that  it  would  be  right  for  her  to  use 
the  plain  language,  thee  and  thou  to  one  person,  but  is 
evidently  evading  the  cross,  pleading  the  excuse  that  her 
education  has  been  so  different  and  her  surroundings  such 
that  she  finds  it  very  hard,  and  the  cross  very  great.  She 
tried  to  comply  with  the  requisition,  but  found  herself 
greatly  in  the  mixture.  She  is  not  a  member  amongst 


60  JOURNAL    OF  [1845. 

Friends.  I  encouraged  her  to  be  faithful,  telling  her  that 
He  who  required  the  sacrifice  and  had  given  her  to  see  that 
it  was  her  duty,  would  enable  her  to  comply  if  rightly  sought 
unto  and  followed.  That  although  of  ourselves  we  are  not 
able  to  bring  about  a  resignation  of  our  wills,  or  to  take  up 
the  cross,  yet  it  is  important  that  we  should  look  for  help 
and  strength  unto  Him  who  hath  all  power,  &c.  She  ap- 
peared to  receive  kindly  what  I  said,  and  seemed  thankful 
and  thoughtful.  When  we  feel  the  stirrings  and  quickening 
influence  on  our  minds  of  Him  who  openeth  and  no  man 
shutteth,  and  shutteth  and  no  man  openeth,  to  speak  a 
word  for  his  cause,  and  truth's  sake,  Oh !  then,  how  unsafe 
to  fear  the  frowns  of  man,  or  the  face  of  man. 

Visited  the  sick  friend  before  alluded  to,  who  is  fast 
sinking,  but  expressed  a  comfortable  hope  that  through  the 
mercy  of  God  through  Christ  Jesus,  she  would  be  permitted 
to  land  safely.  Upon  my  remarking  that  I  had  this  hope 
for  her,  that  a  living  hope  was  better  than  a  dead  faith ; 
and  that  of  ourselves  we  could  do  no  good  thing,  being 
poor,  frail  unworthy  creatures,  &c.,  she  replied,  "  Oh  !  it  is 
the  truth ;  I  have  long  felt  it  it  to  be  so,  but  never  so  par- 
ticularly as  since  I  was  laid  on  this  sick  bed.  It  is  through 
mercy,  unmerited  mercy,  that  we  are  enabled  to  feel  any 
thing  that  is  good."  Before  leaving,  I  said  to  her  that  if 
she  had  any  counsel  for  me,  I  hoped  she  would  not  with- 
hold it.  After  a  little  pause,  she  said,  "  I  have  been  think- 
ing a  great  deal  about  our  poor  Society.  It  seems  to  me 
that  many  of  those  who  stood  in  the  foremost  ranks  are 
gone — Oh !  that  the  things  which  remain  may  be  strength- 
ened ;  Oh !  that  thou  mayest  be  faithful.  Be  faithful,  and 
strengthen  the  little  flock  that  is  left.  Thou  hast  been 
greatly  favored,  may  it  continue  to  be  so."  At  this  time 
the  Gurneyites  in  our  Yearly  Meeting  seemed  to  bear  down 


1846.]  ANN     BRANSON.  61 

everything  before  them,  which  was  a  great  burden  to  this 
dear  Friend,  as  well  as  to  many  others ;  yet  she  said,  that 
she  saw  a  little  living  remnant  preserved  in  our  midst,  and 
greatly  desired  the  encouragement  of  these.  I  have  felt 
myself  amply  rewarded  for  endeavoring  to  abide  in  the 
patience,  under  the  proving  feelings  of  poverty  and  deser- 
tion which  have  been  meted  out  to  me  of  latter  time, — feel- 
ing now  and  then  a  capacity  given  me,  to  sympathize  with 
the  destitute  and  afflicted  in  body  and  in  mind,  being  able 
to  say  my  soul  knoweth  well  what  those  seasons  are,  and 
that  the  Lord  delighteth  to  show  forth  his  marvellous  power 
in  the  time  of  our  greatest  extremity ;  therefore,  the  lan- 
guage of  my  heart  is,  "  Rejoice  in  the  Lord,  Oh,  ye  right- 
eous, for  praise  is  comely  for  the  upright.  Trust  in  the 
Lord  forever,  for  in  the  Lord  Jehovah  is  everlasting 
strength." 

23rd. — Heard  some  passages  read  from  Scott's  Diary, 
which  had  a  consoling  effect  upon  my  mind,  having  been 
for  some  days  past  under  great  exercise  and  travail  of  soul. 
It  seemed  as  if  the  weight  of  mountains,  comparatively 
speaking,  rested  upon  me,  and  were  it  not  for  the  ability 
given  to  cry  secretly  unto  the  Lord  for  help,  I  could  scarcely 
refrain  from  crying  aloud,  even  in  the  presence  of  others, 
under  the  weight  that  I  feel.  But  this  passage  is  at  times 
brought  before  me  with  life,  "  Why  art  thou  cast  down,  O 
my  soul?  and  why  art  thou  disquieted  within  me?  hope 
thou  in  God :  for  I  shall  yet  praise  Him  for  the  help  of  his 
countenance."  And,  blessed  be  his  name,  a  little  ability 
has  been  given  me  to  wash  and  anoint,  rather  than  appear 
unto  men  to  fast ;  and  I  have  been  narrowly  reviewing  my 
steps. 

First  Month  17th,  1846. — Spent  some  time  this  evening 
reading  in  the  Journal  of  Thomas  Scattergood ;  and  it  is 


62  JOURNAL    OF  [1846. 

renewedly  sealed  upon  my  mind  that  the  great  exercise 
and  travail  of  soul,  that  he  passed  though  in  England  and 
America,  in  his  ministerial  labors,  were  designed  as  a  par- 
ticular call  and  warning  to  those  amongst  us  in  the  minis- 
try, not  to  trust  to,  or  lean  to  our  own  understandings  in 
our  religious  movements.  Oh !  how  abased,  how  shut  up, 
how  exceedingly  stripped,  tried  and  tempted,  did  our  Heav- 
enly Father  permit  him  to  become,  not  only  for  a  day  or  a 
month,  but  for  months  together.  Oh !  how  unlike  many 
in  the  present  day,  who  run  without  being  sent,  and  preach 
without  the  Lord's  anointing,  or  command,  saying  the  Lord 
saith,  albeit  He  hath  not  spoken  by  them.  How  tried  and 
proven  some  are  now,  who  nevertheless  desire  above  all 
things,  even  in  the  midst  of  suffering,  to  hold  fast  their  in- 
tegrity, and  concerning  outward  trials,  that  which  afflicts 
more  than  anything  else  is  false  brethren. 

Second  Month  4th. — Tempted,  tried  and  proven,  even  to 
an  hair's  breadth — what  further  plungings  and  wadings 
the  Lord  may  permit  me  to  go  through,  I  know  not ;  but 
all  that  I  ask,  all  that  I  desire  is,  that  my  spiritual  life  may 
be  given  me  for  a  prey.  Who  that  passes  through  these 
seasons  of  stripping  and  proving,  and  are  again  raised  up 
with  their  faith  and  hope  renewed,  but  can  with  great 
abasedness  of  self,  acknowledge  that  there  is  nothing  in  our 
nature,  no,  not  a  vestige  or  particle  that  can  further  our 
salvation.  It  is  all  the  gift  of  God  through  Jesus  Christ 
our  Lord,  that  can  keep  us  in  the  hour  of  temptation. 
It  is  his  own  immediate  interposition  which  has  preserved 
me  from  utter  despair.  Oh  !  what  shall  I  render  unto  Him 
for  preserving  me  in  and  through  hours  of  darkness  and 
doubt,  from  casting  away  my  confidence,  and  making  ship- 
wreck of  faith  and  hope.  Surely,  nothing  but  mercy,  un- 
merited mercy,  have  I  to  trust  to.  It  is  not  by  works  of 


1846.]  ANN    BRANSON.  63 

righteousness  that  we  have  done  but  according  to  his  mercy 
He  saves  us  "  through  the  washing  of  regeneration  and 
renewing  of  the  Holy  Ghost."  Thanks  be  ascribed  unto 
Thee,  thou  King  of  Saints,  for  rescuing  me  from  the  jaw  of 
the  lion,  and  the  paw  of  the  bear. 

16th. — To-day  had  a  comfortable  silent  meeting  in  which 
my  heart  was  bowed  down  in  solemn  supplication  to  the 
Father  of  mercies,  in  the  language  of  David,  "  Give  ear,  O, 
Shepherd  of  Israel,  Thou  that  leadest  Joseph  like  a  flock ; 
thou  that  dwellest  between  the  cherubim,  shine  forth.  Be- 
fore Ephraim,  and  Benjamin,  and  Manasseh  stir  up  thy 
strength,  and  come  and  save  us."  Oh,  the  disposition  there 
is  amongst  us  to  modify  Quaker  principles  and  make  them 
more  agreeable  to  the  spirit  of  the  world,  and  the  worldly 
wise.  This  disposition  is  increasing,  but  thanks  be  ascribed 
to  our  holy  Leader,  He  hath  shown  the  bait  to  his  honest- 
hearted  children,  and  enabled  them  to  cry — "A  lion,  my 
Lord,  I  stand  continually  upon  the  watch-tower  in  the  day- 
time, and  I  am  set  in  my  ward  whole  nights."  A  lion  is  in 
his  lurking  places  prepared  to  catch  men  as  they  sit  down 
to  rest,  as  did  the  young  prophet,  and  to  become  overtaken 
by  the  old  and  professedly  experienced  ones,  who  entreat 
them  to  turn  aside,  and  to  eat  and  to  drink  with  those  with 
whom  they  have  been  forbidden  to  partake. 

Sixth  Month  13th. — On  reading  a  letter  from  Ann  Crow- 
ley  to  Thomas  Scattergood,  a  little  hope  sprang  up  in  my 
heart,  that  as  others  had  been  as  deeply  tried  with  fears  and 
doubts  respecting  a  safe  lauding  as  myself,  perhaps  the  day 
might  ere  long  dawn,  when  a  ray  of  living  hope  might  dis- 
pel the  midnight  gloom,  and  my  captive  spirit  be  enabled 
to  take  fresh  courage  and  to  trust  in  the  Lord  with  all  my 
heart,  and  not  to  lean  to  my  own  understanding.  "  O  the 
hope  of  Israel,  the  Saviour  thereof  in  time  of  trouble ;  why 


64  JOURNAL     OF  [1846. 

shouldest  thou  be  as  a  stranger  in  the  land,  and  as  a  way- 
faring man  that  turneth  aside  to  tarry  for  a  night?" 

I  have  recently  obtained  a  Minute  from  the  Monthly 
Meeting  to  visit  some  meetings  within  the  limits  of  Still- 
water  and  Short  Creek  Quarterly  Meetings.  But  oh  the 
baptisms  necessary  to  be  endured  for  such  a  work !  Oh,  holy 
Father  strengthen  me  to  perform  what  thou  requires  and 
nothing  less  or  more,  and  whether  I  suffer  or  rejoice  with 
the  righteous  seed,  thy  will  be  done. 

Seventh  Month  21st. — My  mind  is  impressed  with  the 
necessity  of  spending  time  in  reverence  and  godly  fear.  Oh, 
time,  time,  how  precious — Lord  be  pleased  to  enable  me  to 
spend  it  aright. 

Eighth  Month  10th. — A  little  living  hope  now  and  then 
springs  up  in  my  heart,  that  I  am  not  and  shall  not  be  for- 
saken of  the  Lord,  if  grace  and  faith  fail  not ;  but  oh,  how 
close  the  enemy  is  permitted  to  come ;  truly  my  soul  can 
say  from  living  experience,  and  that  renewedly  even  many 
times  from  day  to  day,  I  had  fainted  unless  the  Lord  had 
by  his  holy  Spirit  lifted  up  a  standard  against  the  floods  of 
the  enemy.  How  can  I  enough  admire  the  goodness  of  the 
Lord  and  magnify  his  name,  under  the  humbling  considera- 
tion of  the  marvellous  deliverances  from  the  pit  of  despair 
which  he  hath  wrought  for  my  soul.  Last  Seventh-day  the 
conflict  of  my  mind  was  beyond  description,  and  I  plainly 
felt  and  saw,  that  nothing  save  an  Almighty  interposing 
power  could  give  or  command  deliverance  ;  and  to  think  of 
attending  a  neighboring  meeting  the  next  day  under  such 
feelings !  but  the  requirement  seeming  to  be  right  I  went, 
and  though  I  sat  silently  amongst  the  few  who  attended,  yet 
in  the  afternoon,  feelings  of  thanksgiving  and  praise  were 
raised  in  my  heart  unto  Him  who  is  often  pleased  to  hide 
his  face  from  me,  and  permit  my  soul  to  go  on  mournfully ; 


1846.]  ANN    BRANSON.  65 

but  as  I  believe  these  dispensations  are  designed  to  keep  me 
in  my  proper  allotment,  I  can  thankfully  say  I  bless  the 
Lord  for  them. 

llth. — My  heart  to-day,  as  well  as  at  many  other  times, 
has  been  engaged  in  supplication  unto  the  Lord  for  mercy 
and  preservation.  Blessed  be  God  who  giveth  me  a  heart 
susceptible  of  tender  impressions  and  ability  to  crave  a  con- 
tinuance of  his  compassionate  regard.  No  matter  what  I 
suffer,  so  that  I  am  kept  in  the  way  of  the  Lord's  requiring. 

23rd. — Great  have  been  the  tossings  of  mind  which  I 
have  experienced  of  latter  time,  with  but  little  intermission  ; 
but  to-day  my  heavenly  Father  (blessed  be  his  name  for- 
ever) gave  the  word  of  command  to  the  winds  and  waves, 
and  behold  a  great  calm.  How  can  I  be  thankful  enough 
for  the  favor.  In  those  moments  and  days  of  tossing  the 
prayer  of  my  heart  hath  been,  that  if  these  proving  dispen- 
sations were  occasioned  by  unfaithfulness,  or  anything  done 
or  not  done  by  me,  with  which  the  Lord  was  displeased,  I 
might  be  permitted  to  see  it  and  repent  thereof;  but  I  have 
not  felt  condemnation.  When  will  I  learn  to  endure  tribu- 
lation rightly  and  let  patience  have  her  perfect  work. 

Ninth  Month. — Our  Yearly  Meeting  is  past.  Oh,  who 
could  have  thought  that  our  Society  would  have  ever  ex- 
hibited the  aspect  that  it  now  does,  that  of  having  to  so  great 
an  extent  become  as  Ephraim  of  old.  It  is  written,  "Eph- 
raim,  he  hath  mixed  himself  among  the  people ;  strangers 
have  devoured  his  strength  and  he  knoweth  it  not."  I  have 
forborne  to  write  much  concerning  the  state  of  things  amongst 
us,  but  my  heart  is  at  times  almost  overwhelmed  with  sor- 
row on  account  of  the  state  of  many  amongst  us,  yea  of  very 
many. 

The  great  Head  of  the  Church  is  hastening  the  time,  yea 
it  is  begun  ;  when  judgment  shall  "  run  down  as  waters  ;  " 


66  JOURNAL     OF  [1846. 

and  oh  hasten  thou  also  the  time,  when  righteousness,  pure 
undefiled  righteousness,  shall  be  as  "  a  mighty  stream."  In 
the  last  sitting  of  the  Select  Yearly  Meeting,  I  felt  a  great 
concern  to  speak  of  the  state  of  the  ministry  amongst  us. 
The  subject  had  rested  with  me  as  a  great  burden,  and  when 
the  time  came  for  me  to  unburden  my  mind,  I  gave  up 
thereto,  and  felt  a  great  calm,  and  holy  quiet  to  pervade  my 
mind  all  the  evening  afterwards.  Such  a  quietude  and  song 
of  praise  filled  my  heart  as  had  not  often  been  surpassed  in 
my  experience.  I  felt  it  right  for  me  to  say  in  that  meet- 
ing, that  I  believed  there  was  a  ministry  gotten  up  in  our 
religious  Society  which  the  Lord  would  rend;  that  He  hath 
had,  continues  to  have,  and  will  continue  to  have,  a  contro- 
versy therewith — a  ministry  which  is  exercised  in  all  the 
deceivableness  of  unrighteousness  in  the  will  and  wisdom  of 
the  creature.  That  this  ministry  claimed,  and  brought  to 
view  past  experience ;  and  in  the  modulation  and  modifica- 
tion of  the  voice,  gesture,  &c.,  all  was  calculated  to  deceive. 
That  many  times  no  fault  could  be  found  with  the  doctrine 
advanced,  yet  wanting  the  life  and  power,  it  was  offensive 
in  the  sight  of  God.  Though  it  had  been  a  great  burden 
upon  my  spirit,  yet  I  had  felt  a  secret  rejoicing  that  there 
was  that  which  could  not  be  deceived,  even  the  elect  and 
precious  seed,  Christ  the  chosen  of  God. 

Tenth  Month  27th. — The  heart-rending  considerations  that 
often  take  hold  of  my  mind  concerning  the  state  of  our  re- 
ligious Society,  are  accompanied  with  a  daily  fear  that  I 
myself  will  yet  fall  a  prey  to  the  wiles  of  the  Adversary  who 
is  transforming  himself  into  an  angel  of  Light.  That  many 
are  taken  captive  by  a  specious  pretence,  that  early  Friends 
in  their  doctrinal  writings  are  chargeable  with  many  dis- 
crepancies and  errors.  Thus  are  the  adversaries  of  truth, 
even  many,  in  conspicuous  stations;  and  in  many  places 


1846.]  ANN    BRANSON.  67 

trying  to  lay  waste,  not  only  the  reputation  of  early  Friends, 
but  to  destroy  the  foundation  of  the  Christian's  hope  as  up- 
held, believed  in,  and  promulgated  by  them.  Alas  for  the 
framers  of  this  Babel ;  alas  for  the  poor  deceived  and  de- 
luded ones  who  follow  them,  when  the  vials  of  the  wrath 
and  vengeance  of  an  offended  God  is  poured  out  upon  a 
gainsaying  and  rebellious  people.  Those  amongst  us  who 
think  and  say,  that  the  doctrines  of  our  religious  Society  are 
not  in  accordance  with  the  pure  truths  of  the  Gospel  as  set 
forth  by  Christ  and  his  Apostles  in  the  Scriptures  of  truth, 
shall  be  as  when  a  "  hungry  man  dreameth,  and  behold,  he 
eateth  ;  but  he  awaketh,  and  his  soul  is  empty.  Or  as  when 
a  thirsty  man  dreameth,  and  behold,  he  drinketh  ;  but  he 
awaketh,  and  behold,  he  is  faint,  and  his  soul  hath  appe- 
tite." Alas,  when  these  awake  to  a  sense  of  their  real  con- 
dition, they  will  find  themselves  to  have  been  strangely  de- 
luded and  led  away  from  the  flock  and  fold  of  Christ.  This 
is  my  firm  belief  concerning  all  those  amongst  us  who  are 
calling  in  question  the  doctrines  and  testimonies  of  this  So- 
ciety as  upheld  and  promulgated  by  our  first  Friends. 

Eleventh  Month  8th. — It  has  been  many  months  past  that 
I  have  felt  no  command  to  open  my  mouth  in  the  ministry 
in  our  meetings  for  worship  at  home.  Some  of  these  meet- 
ings have  been  seasons  of  inexpressible  exercise  of  mind  and 
deep  conflict  of  soul ;  insomuch  that  I  have  almost  despaired 
of  life.  But  the  Lord  who  raiseth  the  dead  and  quickeneth 
whom  He  will,  hath  not  wholly  cast  me  off  at  such  times, 
but  hath  kept  me  alive,  and  given  me  to  see  that  He  will 
have  it  so.  That  his  ministers  shall  be  as  flaming  fire;  and 
notwithstanding  the  great  efforts  made  even  by  many  in  high 
standing  in  this  day  of  ease  to  evade  the  cross ;  teaching 
people  so,  by  endeavoring  to  please  the  natural  mind  ;  yet, 
in  his  inscrutable  wisdom,  He  will  bring  to  nothing  the  un- 


68  JOURNAL    OF  [1847. 

derstanding  of  the  prudent,  and  the  wisdom  of  the  wise,  who 
are  so  in  their  own  eyes,  and  the  eyes  of  the  worldly  wise. 
"  He  will  not  give  his  glory  to  another,  nor  his  praise  to 
graven  images."  Oh  the  reduction  that  the  Lord's  minis- 
ters must  again,  and  again,  experience.  My  soul  is  exceed- 
ingly fearful  for  the  state  of  many  amongst  us,  both  minis- 
ters and  hearers.  May  the  Lord  purge  us  until  the  will  of 
the  creature  is  slain,  and  the  Kingdom  received  as  a  little 
child. 

Second  Month  13th,  1847.— Accounts  from  Ireland  are 
increasingly  painful  and  awful.  It  is  stated  that  hundreds 
have  already  starved  to  death,  whilst  hundreds  and  thous- 
ands more  are  in  a  state  of  starvation.  Who  can  but  min- 
gle the  tear  of  sympathy  and  sorrow  with  these  unhappy 
people,  whilst  every  effort  in  our  power  should  be  made  to 
alleviate  their  suffering  condition.  People  in  this  country 
seem  generally  awakened  to  an  interest  for  them,  and  much 
is  doing  in  many  places  in  forwarding  supplies  of  food.  I 
can  hardly  take  my  usual  meals ;  the  thought  of  their  suf- 
fering being  heart  sickening  as  well  as  heart  rending.  Who 
knoweth  how  soon  or  when  this  cup  of  famine  may  pass  over 
to  other  nations.  Are  we  not  deserving  such  a  judgment? 
And  it  is  only  in  mercy  that  it  is  not  sent  for  us  to  drink. 
Full  fed  and  ungrateful  as  we  are,  who  would  marvel,  if  in 
his  righteous  indignation,  who  ruleth  the  nations,  and  unto 
whom  belongeth  every  beast  of  the  field  and  the  cattle  upon 
a  thousand  hills,  that  He  the  Lord  should  cut  off  our  re- 
sources of  necessary  food  and  give  us  the  cup  of  famine  to 
drink?  Even  if  this  cup  should  pass  from  us,  other  judg- 
ments may  come,  equally  alarming  and  trying  to  bear ;  for 
we  are  as  a  nation  high  and  lifted  up,  and  the  Lord  in  his 
own  time  will  bring  down  and  permit  the  nations  of  men  to 
be  shaken. 


1847.]  ANN     BRANSON.  69 

The  life  and  labors  of  my  beloved  father  often  come  up 
before  the  view  of  my  mind  as  a  sweet  memorial  of  his  con- 
stancy and  firmness,  through  good  report  and  evil  report. 
He  was  no  flatterer,  but  with  firmness  did  he  resist  the  doc- 
trinal innovations  of  Elias  Hicks  and  his  followers ;  and 
also  with  equal  firmness  did  he  resist  the  innovations  which 
are  making  their  way  in  the  Society  by  the  introduction 
and  spread  of  unsound  writings.  Often  saying  to  some  of 
his  friends,  that  his  exercise  and  interest  for  the  welfare  of 
society  increased  as  his  bodily  strength  declined.  Greatly 
desiring  that  a  testimony  might  go  forth  against  the  unsound 
writings  of  Joseph  John  Gurney,  through  much  bodily  weak- 
ness and  suffering,  he  attended  a  Meeting  for  Sufferings  held 
at  Mount  Pleasant,  not  more  than  two  weeks  before  his 
death,  for  the  purpose  of  issuing  a  testimony  against  those 
writings ;  and  in  that  meeting  he  labored  in  the  authority 
of  Truth  for  the  support  of  our  principles  and  testimonies. 
After  this  meeting  was  over  he  said  to  a  Friend,  who  in- 
quired of  him  how  he  felt,  "  I  am  weak  and  a  great  sufferer, 
but  I  am  glad  I  have  been  here.  I  am  willing  to  be  trod 
upon,"  alluding  to  the  opposition  to  a  testimony  being  pre- 
pared against  the  unsound  writings  of  J.  J.  Gurney.  Oh, 
that  I  may  be  permitted  through  mercy  to  receive  in  the 
winding  up  of  ray  time  here,  as  was  doubtless  the  experience 
of  my  beloved  father,  the  answer  of  well  done,  or  a  "crown 
of  glory  that  fadeth  not  away."  Oh  for  faith  and  patience 
to  wade  through  the  remaining  conflicts  which  may  be  per- 
mitted to  attend  me  through  my  future  pilgrimage  in  this 
life. 

I  feel  that  in  a  late  and  long  mental  conflict  which  hath 
been  permitted  to  attend  me,  that  the  powers  of  the  earth 
have  been  in  some  degree  shaken ;  and  it  seems  to  me  that 
the  language  of  the  Apostle  Peter  is  in  some  degree  applica- 


70  JOURNAL   OF  [1847. 

ble  to,  and  descriptive  of,  such  a  state — "  But  the  day  of  the 
Lord  will  come  as  a  thief  in  the  night ;  in  the  which  the 
heavens  shall  pass  away  with  a  great  noise,  and  the  elements 
shall  melt  with  fervent  heat,  the  earth  also  and  the  works 
that  are  therein  shall  be  burned  up." 

Seeing  then  that  all  these  things  shall  be  dissolved,  what 
manner  of  persons  ought  ye  to  be  in  all  holy  conversation 
and  godliness.  Looking  for  and  hasting  unto  the  coming  of 
the  day  of  God,  wherein  the  heavens  being  on  fire  shall  be 
dissolved,  and  the  elements  shall  melt  with  fervent  heat. 
Nevertheless  we,  according  to  his  promise,  look  for  new 
heavens  and  a  new  earth,  wherein  dwelleth  righteousness. 
Wherefore,  beloved,  seeing  that  ye  look  for  such  things,  be 
diligent,  that  ye  may  be  found  of  Him  in  peace,  without 
spot,  and  blameless. 

Agreeing  with  the  foregoing  is  the  language  of  another 
Apostle — "  Yet  once  more  I  shake  not  the  earth  only,  but 
also  heaven.  And  this  word,  yet  once  more,  signifieth  the 
removing  of  those  things  that  are  shaken,  as  of  things  that 
are  made ;  that  those  things  which  cannot  be  shaken  may 
remain." 

Consonant  with  the  foregoing  is  the  language  of  the 
Prophet  Isaiah — A  The  earth  is  utterly  broken  down.  The 
earth  is  clean  dissolved.  The  earth  is  moved  exceedingly. 
The  earth  shall  reel  to  and  fro  like  a  drunkard,  and  shall 
be  removed  like  a  cottage;  and  the  transgression  thereof 
shall  be  heavy  upon  it ;  and  shall  fall  and  not  rise  again." 
We  who  are  making  profession  of  the  Christian  religion, 
who  are  holding  forth  the  necessity  of  being  baptized  with 
fire  and  with  the  Holy  Ghost;  who  are  recommending  and 
urging  the  necessity  of  people  experiencing  the  new  birth — 
of  witnessing  the  laver  of  regeneration  to  wash  the  inner 
temple  of  the  heart — we  who  are  professing  to  be  led  and 


1847.]  ANN     BRANSON.  71 

guided  by  the  Spirit  of  Truth  which  leads  out  of  all  error 
into  all  truth ;  what  do  we  know  of  these  things  of  which 
the  Apostles  speak  ?  What  do  we  know  of  the  day  of  the 
Lord  burning  as  an  oven ;  consuming  the  chaff,  tin  and 
reprobate  silver — the  chaffy  nature  in  us,  the  earthly  sensual 
lusts  and  appetites  which  war  against  the  coming  of  Christ's 
kingdom  ? 

What  do  we  know  of  the  whole  heart  being  given  up  to 
the  work  and  service  of  the  Lord ;  and  consequently  a  pre- 
vious preparation  for  such  work  and  service,  to  wit,  the  will 
of  the  creature  slain ;  and  the  understanding  of  the  natural 
man  brought  to  naught,  and  the  Lord  alone  exalted  and  his 
kingdom  set  up  in  our  hearts  ?  We  who  are  preaching  to 
the  people  the  necessity  of  this  change  of  heart ;  professing 
to  believe  that  as  we  follow  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  He  will 
work  this  glorious  change  in  us  ;  that  He  will  "  create  in  us 
a  clean  heart  and  renew  a  right  spirit  within  us."  That  the 
new  heavens  and  the  new  earth  wherein  dwelleth  righteous- 
ness, shall  take  the  place  of  the  old  heavens  and  the  old 
earth.  What  do  we  know  of  this  blessed,  glorious  change 
being  wrought  in  us? 

Seeing  then  that  we  look  for  such  things,  that  we  hold  up 
the  necessity  of  such  a  change,  how  ought  we  to  demean 
ourselves ;  how  ought  we  to  guard  our  conversation ;  how 
diligent  should  we  be,  to  hasten  the  coming  of  that  day,  by 
submitting  to  the  cleansing  operation  of  the  Spirit  of  Christ. 
Much  might  be  said  on  this  subject,  but  suffice  it  for  me  to 
add — May  the  Lord  perfect  the  work  of  sanctification  in  me, 
so  that  that  which  is  of  the  earth  and  earthy,  may  be  thor- 
oughly removed  ;  and  a  new  heart  and  a  new  life  be  mine ; 
amen  and  amen. 

Third  Month  15th. — Every  thing  around  me  appears  sol- 
emn. Time,  my  time,  is  very  precious.  I  can  though,  in 


72  JOURNAL    OF  [1847. 

fear  and  trembling  hope,  that  through  the  mercy  of  God  in 
Christ  Jesus,  I  may  be  preserved  in  watchfulness  and  prayer, 
and  be  permitted  to  make  a  peaceful  close.  Oh !  it  is  a 
time  of  great  searching  of  heart.  Last  Seventh-day  week 
was  the  time  of  our  Quarterly  Meeting,  in  which  it  appeared 
right  for  me  to  say — "  That  although  I  believed  the  Lord's 
mercy  was  round  about  to  gather  us;  and  to  bring  us  to 
repentance ;  yet  an  awful  consideration  had  taken  hold  of 
my  mind  concerning  those  who  say  they  are  Jews  and  are 
not ;  but  do  lie,  but  are  of  the  synagogue  of  Satan  ;  believ- 
ing that  the  wrath  and  indignation  of  Almighty  God  was 
impending  on  account  thereof.  Those  who  were  willing  and 
desirous  to  be  thought  the  followers  of  Christ,  making  a 
profession  of  being  led  and  guided  by  the  Spirit  of  Truth ; 
yet  are  refusing  to  submit  to  the  heart-cleansing  operation 
of  the  holy  Spirit,  which  would  enable  them  to  offer  an 
offering  acceptable  unto  God ;  it  seemed  to  me  that  our 
Heavenly  Father  was  weary  with  such,  and  that  his  indig- 
nation was  impending  therefor.  It  is  an  awful  thing  thus 
to  speak,  but  the  reward  is  only  found  by  being  faithful. 

18th. — In  reading  and  tracing  the  accounts  of  many  valu- 
able and  worthy  servants  of  the  Most  High,  I  find  that  their 
lives  were  tribulated ;  and  some  through  great  tribulations, 
were  permitted  to  partake  seldom  of  the  bread  of  the  Gover- 
nor, even  as  Nehemiah.  Oh,  my  God !  thou  orderest  all 
things  for  thy  glory,  as  there  is  an  entire  dependence  upon 
thee.  I  beg,  yea  crave,  that  my  heart  may  be  increasingly 
devoted  unto  thee,  and  thy  service ;  that  whatever  tribula- 
tions I  may  have  yet  to  pass  through  it  may  redound  to  the 
glory  and  praise  of  thy  excellent  name.  Should  these  lines 
ever  meet  the  view  of  any  poor  tribulated  soul ;  let  me  say 
to  such  an  one,  the  Lord  knoweth  thy  condition  ;  He  hear- 
eth  thy  groanings,  thy  sighs,  and  tears;  the  anguish  and 


1847.]  ANN    BRANSON.  73 

grief  of  thy  spirit,  are  all  plain  before  Him,  though  thou 
know  it  not.  And  if  thou  wait  in  patience,  and  do  not  stir 
up  thy  Beloved  before  He  pleases ;  He  will  in  his  own  time 
come  "leaping  upon  the  mountains,  skipping  upon  the  hills." 
He  will  put  down  all  opposition  which  rises  in  thy  mind  to 
retard  the  spread  and  growth  of  his  pure  and  glorious  word, 
and  power  in  thy  heart ;  and  though  he  tarry,  wait  thou  for 
Him,  and  let  the  prayer  of  thy  heart  be  on  this  wise:  "Un- 
til the  day  break  and  the  shadows  flee  away,  turn  my  be- 
loved ;  and  be  thou  like  a  roe,  or  a  young  hart  upon  the 
mountains  of  Bether."  Yea,  desire  not  thou  that  He  will 
satisfy  thy  longing  soul  until  He  sees  meet,  until  He  dis- 
perse all  shadows,  all  types,  all  things  which  tend  to  veil  thy 
mind  from  enjoying  the  substance,  the  essence,  the  marrow, 
the  kernel  of  religion — Christ  in  thee  the  hope  of  glory. 

21st. — Attended  our  meeting  at  Flushing.  Great  was  my 
desire  for  this  little  company,  that  the  Lord  would  awaken 
them  to  a  sense  of  their  true  state.  Oh,  that  He  would  raise 
the  dead,  is  often  the  cry  of  my  spirit  without  the  interven- 
tion of  words.  Many  wonder  at  my  mouth  being  so  gener- 
ally closed  in  our  meetings  for  worship.  It  seems  to  me  I 
see  a  cause ;  how  have  we  become  degenerated,  trusting  in 
the  arm  of  flesh  ;  and  what  a  flow  of  words  do  we  often  hear 
which  have  but  little  of  the  demonstration  of  the  Spirit  and 
power  to  recommend  them  to  the  attention  of  the  people. 
Oh  my  soul  bows  before  God  ;  and  mourning  as  a  garment 
covers  me,  which  I  desire  not  to  cast  off  until  the  Lord's 
appointed  time.  Then  if  He  see  meet  to  give  me  beauty  for 
ashes,  the  oil  of  joy  for  mourning,  and  the  garment  of  praise 
for  the  spirit  of  heaviness,  then  may  my  soul  rejoice ;  and 
not  till  then  presume  to  take  upon  me  to  praise  and  magnify 
with  the  tongue;  when  the  command  is  to  mourn  in  secret, 
and  wash  and  anoint,  rather  than  to  appear  unto  men  to 


74  JOURNAL    OF  [1847. 

fast.  The  Lord  only  knoweth  the  tribulations  of  ray  soul,, 
and  how  my  spirit  craveth  to  serve  Him  faithfully  through 
all  the  remainder  of  my  days  ;  which  I  sometimes  think  will 
not  be  many.  Oh,  that  I  may  be  found  worthy  to  enter 
into  everlasting  rest,  when  time  here  to  me  shall  be  ncx 
more. 

Fourth  Month  2nd. — Appointed  a  Meeting  for  Worship 
last  First-day  for  the  colored  inhabitants  of  this  neighbor- 
hood, which  was  in  some  degree  relieving  to  my  mind. 
Having  felt  a  concern  for  a  long  time,  respecting  appointing 
a  meeting  amongst  the  Presbyterians,  about  four  miles  dis- 
tant from  my  home,  and  having  obtained  liberty  of  my 
Monthly  Meeting  for  the  purpose  of  appointing  some  meet- 
ings from  amongst  Friends,  I  ventured  to  mention  it  to  some 
Friends,  and  being  encouraged  thereto,  the  subject  was  laid 
before  some  of  their  leading  members,  or  Elders,  who  as- 
sented thereto  except  one ;  who  said,  their  minister  was  ab- 
sent and  they  could  not  grant  the  liberty  until  his  return  r 
and  not  without  his  approbation.  I  feel  peaceful  and  easy 
in  having  thus  far  endeavored  to  obtain  a  meeting  amongst 
them.  If  they  refuse  the  liberty  of  holding  such  a  meeting, 
I  then  believe  I  shall  be  clear. 

Fourth  Month  7th. — Attended  West  Grove  Meeting.  It 
was  to  me  a  low  and  painful  time,  the  life  of  religion  being^ 
I  fully  believe,  at  a  very  low  ebb  in  that  place.  I  had  to 
revive  this  language,  viz:  "God  setteth  the  solitary  in  fami- 
lies ;  He  bringeth  out  those  which  are  bound  with  chains, 
&c. ; "  expressing  my  belief,  that  although  it  might  be  only 
a  solitary  one,  or  a  solitary  few,  in  a  meeting,  or  neighbor- 
hood, who  were  desiring  to  serve  the  Lord,  or  did  faithfully 
serve  Him ;  that  in  his  own  time  He  would  make  a  way  for 
their  enlargement  and  deliverance,  and  "  give  them  beauty 
for  ashes,  the  oil  of  joy  for  mourning,  and  the  garment  of 


1847.]  ANN    BRANSON.  75 

praise  for  the  spirit  of  heaviness."  But  with  the  lukewarm, 
the  careless  and  indifferent,  the  casual  attender  of  meetings, 
or  those  who  made  it  a  matter  of  convenience,  preferring  the 
things  of  this  world  to  their  best  interest ;  with  these  I  be- 
lieved the  Lord  was  weary,  who  say  they  are  Jews  and  are 
not,  but  do  lie.  Oh,  He  is  jealous  of  his  honor ;  He  will  not 
give  his  glory  to  another,  or  "his  praise  to  graven  images." 
I  had  to  warn  them  of  their  danger,  and  left  them  with  a 
heavy  heart. 

8th. — Attended  Harrisville  Meeting.  It  is  painful  to  see 
how  some  of  our  members  who  have  given  up  to  go  where 
they  please,  and  run  as  they  list,  have  become  divested  even 
of  common  civility,  and  good  breeding  in  our  Meetings  for 
Worship ;  having  given  up  to  mix  with  all  the  popular  as- 
sociations of  the  day,  such  as  Abolition,  Temperance,  &c. 
They  despise  those  who  believe  it  best  and  right  for  Friends 
to  act  upon  religious  ground,  and  in  a  society  capacity,  in 
their  petitions  and  efforts  for  the  extermination  of  these 
evils.  Oh  how  some,  whilst  they  are  full  of  argument  and 
run  into  many  notions  respecting  these  subjects,  do  at  the 
same  time  trample  upon  the  principles  of  the  Christian  re- 
ligion ;  evincing  that  they  are  not  what  they  profess  to  be, 
being  enemies  to  the  cross  of  Christ. 

They  will  have  their  day,  so  in  a  time  to  come,  perhaps 
when  it  is  too  late  to  make  amends ;  they  will  find  that  their 
garments  are  moth-eaten  ;  that  they  are  wells  without  water ; 
and  having  committed  two  evils,  "  forsaken  the  fountain  of 
living  waters,  and  hewed  them  out  cisterns,  broken  cisterns 
that  can  hold  no  water."  They  will  have  nothing  to  depend 
upon  that  will  afford  them  consolation  in  a  trying  time ;  and 
"  leaning  their  hand  upon  the  wall  of  the  house  to  which 
they  have  fled  for  safety,  a  serpent  shall  bite  them."  I  had 
to  warn  these  of  the  dangerous  situation  they  were  in,  and 


76  JOURNAL    OF  [1847. 

call  their  attention  to  the  necessity  of  turning  to  the  Lord, 
who  had  often  shown  them  the  danger  of  the  way  which  they 
were  pursuing.  I  had  also  a  word  of  encouragement  for  the 
honest-hearted  amongst  them,  and  returned  home  peaceful, 
and  thankful  for  having  been  strengthened  to  labor  honestly 
and  faithfully  amongst  them,  notwithstanding  some  seemed 
ready  to  mock  at  what  was  delivered. 

Seventh  Month  8th. — "  My  God,  my  God,  why  hast  thou 
forsaken  me !  was  the  language  of  the  blessed  Redeemer  on 
the  cross,  when  suffering  for  the  sins  of  the  whole  world. 
Oh,  the  agony  of  the  dear  Son  of  God  at  that  moment.  May 
a  recollection  of  this  incite  me  to  think  nothing  hard  which 
He  permits  to  attend  me  through  this  pilgrimage.  For 
"  He,  who  knew  no  sin,  suffered  that  ignominious  death," 
for  poor  vile  man,  "  the  just  for  the  unjust ; "  how  shall  not 
we,  with  the  strength  and  ability  which  He  gives,  learn  to 
bear  all  things  patiently ;  and  so  "fill  up  the  measure  of  the 
sufferings  of  Christ  which  are  behind  for  his  body's  sake, 
which  is  the  Church." 

Last  Monthly  Meeting  I  returned  the  Minute  granted  me 
in  the  Third  Month  to  visit  some  meetings  within  the  limits 
of  our  own  Quarterly  Meeting,  and  to  appoint  some  meet- 
ings amongst  those  not  professing  with  Friends. 

Although  this  visit  was  the  most  exercising  one  which  I 
ever  performed  amongst  Friends,  owing  to  the  unsettled 
state  of  our  religious  Society  by  the  introduction  of  unsound 
doctrines  amongst  us,  yet  I  was  favored,  as  I  thought,  to  dis- 
charge myself  faithfully,  and  leave  the  result  to  Him  who 
sees  the  end  from  the  beginning ;  and  will  reward  us  accord- 
ing to  our  deeds.  Oh,  the  cruel  censures  which  are  heaped 
upon  the  faithful  in  this  day — Lord  enable  them  to  bear  all 
things  patiently  for  thy  name's  sake ;  and  for  the  cause  they 
have  espoused ;  and  for  their  own  soul's  sake.  I  felt  like 


1847.]  ANN     BRANSON.  77 

being  nailed  to  the  cross  in  this  little  visit  amongst  our  own 
members ;  and  in  Smithfield  Monthly  Meeting  this  language 
often  ran  through  my  mind,  viz :  "  It  is  finished."  The  cup 
of  suffering  drank  there  mingled  with  the  wormwood  and 
gall,  was  bitter  in  the  extreme ;  and  yet  I  felt  thankful  on 
leaving  the  place,  that  strength  had  been  given  me  to  speak 
what  appeared  to  me  to  be  the  whole  counsel  of  God :  and 
left  them  with  but  little  prospect  of  ever  again  sitting  in  that 
meeting  under  its  present  low,  lifeless — what  if  I  say,  liber- 
tine condition.  At  Short  Creek  Monthly  Meeting  the  state 
of  the  ministry  was  alluded  to  as  being  unwholesome,  and 
not  edifying.  This  seemed  trying;  but  I  came  away  satis- 
fied with  doing  what  I  believed  the  Master  required.  Glori- 
fied be  his  name  forever,  and  let  all  the  earth  say,  amen. 


CHAPTER  IV. 

VISITS  FAMILIES  ABOUT  HOME — GREAT  EXERCISES  OF  MIND — VlSIT  TO  A  SICK 
NEIGHBOR — EXERCISES  CONTINUED,  AND  THE  SPRING  OF  THE  MINISTRY 
IN  GREAT  MEASURE  CLOSED  UP — A  VISIT  TO  MlRIAM  ELLIS,  ON  HER 
DEATH-BED  —  THE  FUNERAL  OF  MlRIAM  ELLIS — HER  LABORS  AND  CON- 
CERN RELATIVE  TO  CALIFORNIA  GOLD-HUNTING. 

Tenth  Month. — Various  have  been  the  exercises  of  my 
mind  since  I  penned  a  line  in  this  book  of  memorandums. 
Our  annual  assembly  has  been  passed  by  for  several  weeks, 
and  yet  the  stale  of  things  exhibited  amongst  us  at  that  time 
is  daily  in  my  remembrance.  When  will  better  days  arrive? 
is  often  the  language  of  my  heart.  When  will  this  people 
be  sufficiently  humbled,  so  as  to  "  offer  unto  the  Lord  an 
offering  in  righteousness,  and  true  holiness,"  as  in  days  that 
are  past?  Oh,  gracious  God!  thou  hast  permitted  this  peo- 
ple to  drink  the  cup  of  trembling.  Thou  hast  poured  out 


78  JOURNAL   OF  [1848. 

thy  fury  upon  us,  so  that  we  have  become  a  byword,  a  taunt, 
and  ridicule  to  all  who  behold  us.  Our  enemies  scornfully 
deriding  us,  say,  where  is  their  God  ?  This  hast  thou  per- 
mitted to  come  upon  us  because  of  our  transgressions,  and 
our  many  and  grievous  back-slidings ;  and  yet  we  are  not 
humbled  in  thy  sight.  Oh,  holy  and  eternal  One ;  my  soul 
most  of  all  craves,  with  respect  to  myself,  and  with  respect 
to  my  people  ;  that  thy  "  hand  may  not  spare  nor  thine  eye 
pity  "  us,  until  thou  make  us  what  thou  wouldst  have  us  to 
be — even  to  speak  the  same  language,  by  minding  the  same 
thing,  by  minding  the  dictates  of  thy  holy  Spirit,  which 
"  leads  out  of  all  error  into  all  Truth." 

Twelfth  Mouth  30th. — It  is  cause  of  inexpressible  grati- 
tude to  the  Author  of  all  our  sure  mercies  that,  although  I 
have  of  late  passed  through  a  severe  struggle  between  hope 
and  despondency ;  yet  I  am  at  this  moment  able  to  lift  up 
my  head  and  with  a  degree  of  living  and  heart-felt  thank- 
fulness to  exclaim — "  hitherto  hath  the  Lord  helped  me." 
In  a  late  visit  to  some  of  the  meetings  in  the  two  northern 
quarters,  I  sometimes  felt  great  peace  and  quietude  of  mind  ; 
but  most  especially  in  the  attendance  of  one  appointed  in  a 
neighborhood  where  but  few  members  reside.  Such  was 
the  sensibly-felt  presence,  and  flow  of  our  heavenly  Father's 
love,  in,  and  after  the  meeting,  that  an  anthem  of  praise, 
constantly  filled  my  heart  for  some  hours  afterwards ;  even 
that  feeling  whereunto  no  sorrow  was  added.  Blessed  be 
God,  who  hath  this  day  renewed  a  little  grain  of  faith  and 
hope  in  me.  May  I  be  accounted  worthy  of  such  a  favor, 
through  the  mercy  of  God  in  Christ  Jesus. 

Third  Month  28th,  1848.— Those  who  think  they  have 
any  natural  faculty,  constitutional  part,  or  principle  inher- 
ent in  them,  whereby  they  are  enabled  to  discover  the  way 
of  life  and  salvation  ;  or  by  such  a  faculty,  or  principle,  en- 


1848.]  ANN    BRANSON.  79 

abled  to  walk  in  this  way;  have  a  different  view  of  the 
natural  mind  of  man  from  myself.  I  believe,  as  the  Holy 
Scriptures  declare,  in  relation  to  man  in  this  natural  state, 
"  that  every  imagination  of  the  thoughts  of  his  heart  was 
only  evil  continually."  None  who  see  and  feel  by  the  light 
and  power  of  the  gospel,  their  condition  as  it  really  is  by 
nature,  can  say,  they  have  any  inherent  holiness,  constitu- 
tional part,  or  principle  in  them,  to  direct  them  in  the  way 
of  life,  and  salvation.  It  is  all  through  the  mercy  of  God 
in  Christ  Jesus,  that  we  are  favored  to  see  ourselves  as  we 
really  are  in  the  fall ;  and  to  obtain  victory  over  our  natural 
corrupt  propensities,  and  desires ;  and  also  the  suggestions 
and  temptations  of  the  Adversary  of  our  soul's  peace. 

Fifth  Month  14th. — To-day  our  Public  Meeting  was  large ; 
many  attending  who  are  not  in  profession  with  us.  Oh,  how 
my  heart  was  bowed  before  the  Lord  in  secret,  silent  prayer 
and  praise.  Earnestly  was  my  spirit  enabled  to  cry  unto 
Him  for  his  protecting  power  to  keep  down  and  restrain 
that  which  would  be  soaring  above  his  true  witness  in  the 
heart.  Humble  and  contrite  us,  oh  Lord  !  are  the  breath- 
ings of  my  soul,  whilst  my  mouth  is  closed  from  vocal  utter- 
ance. I  felt  very  thankful  at  this  time  in  the  belief,  that 
the  Lord  had  not  forsaken  us :  and  blessing  and  thanks- 
giving are  due  unto  Him,  in  that  He  raised  up  a  people 
who  in  the  beginning  of  this  Society,  were  so  eminently  fa- 
vored with  his  life-giving  power  and  presence.  Surely  we 
should  now,  as  a  Society,  be  very  differently  situated  if  our 
hearts  were  more  devoted  to  the  Lord — more  loosened  from 
the  things  of  the  world,  and  set  on  things  above.  Oh,  the 
unspeakable  value  of  being  brought  into  a  capacity  to  wor- 
ship God  in  spirit  and  in  truth — of  silently  adoring  the  Al- 
mighty One.  What  signifies  all  the  noise  of  words,  if  that 
power  which  is  the  crown,  diadem,  beauty,  and  excellency 


80  JOURNAL     OF  [1848. 

of  religious  assemblies,  be  wanting.  All  without  this  is  vain. 
No  true  enjoyment  to  hungry  souls.  If  friends  were  more 
alive  to  the  importance  of  possessing  the  Truth  as  it  is  in 
Jesus — of  becoming  vessels  fitted  and  prepared  for  the  Mas- 
ter's use,  how  would  He  deign  to  meet  with  them  as  in  for- 
mer days ;  He  would  "  beautify  his  sanctuary,  and  make  the 
place  of  his  feet  glorious." 

Fifth  Month. — I  cannot  think  that  my  Heavenly  Father 
hath  entirely  forgotten  me,  or  wholly  forsaken  me ;  though 
I  am,  or  seem  to  "myself  to  be,  like  a  "pelican  of  the  wilder- 
ness, or  like  an  "owl  of  the  desert,"  or  "  alone  as  a  sparrow 
upon  the  house-top."  Though  my  mouth  is  closed  in  our 
meetings,  and  I  sit  as  a  wonder  to  many,  yet  far,  very  far, 
from  apathy  of  feeling  or  unconcern  is  my  heart.  The  Lord 
knoweth,  before  whom  I  lie  not,  that  my  desire  is  to  serve 
Him  only,  and  Him  alone ;  and  although  He  seemeth  to 
shut  up  his  compassion  from  me  oftentimes ;  yet  the  lan- 
guage of  my  spirit  is — "  My  soul  longeth,  yea  even  fainteth 
for  the  courts  of  the  Lord."  I  look  back  upon  the  past, 
when  He  was  pleased  to  manifest  himself  to  me,  so  as  to  re- 
fresh me  greatly ;  but  now  the  recollection  of  those  seasons 
adds  grief  to  my  sorrow,  fearing  as  I  sometimes  fear,  that  I 
have,  or  shall  by«  some  misdemeanor,  wholly  cut  myself  off 
from  a  return  of  the  beloved  of  souls. 

Oh,  how  does  my  spirit  crave  in  our  Meetings  for  Wor- 
ship, as  well  as  at  other  times,  that  our  beloved  young  people, 
as  also  the  middle-aged,  may  be  so  wrought  upon  by  the 
good  hand  of  the  Lord,  as  not  only  to  give  up  their  names 
to  serve  Him,  but  through  the  spirit  of  judgment,  and  of 
burning,  become  standard-bearers  in  his  Church,  that  will 
go  no  more  out ;  and  yet  when  every  feeling  of  my  heart  is 
prostrated  on  their  behalf,  as  it  often  is  in  our  religious  meet- 
ings, how  presumptuous  would  it  be  for  me,  either  in  vocal 


1848.]  ANN     BRANSON.  81 

supplication,  exhortation,  or  ministry,  to  open  my  mouth, 
unless  a  Divine  command  to  speak  was  super-added  to  my 
exercise.  Oh,  that  the  Lord  would  lay  his  chastening  hand 
upon  them,  and  make  them  heirs  of  his  Kingdom.  "I  will 
make  thee  sick  in  smiting  thee,  in  making  thee  desolate,"  is 
a  language  which  I  think  some  will  have  to  realize  in  their 
experience,  before  they  are  prepared  to  give  up  their  names 
to  serve  the  Lord.  Oh,  hasten  the  work,  thou  preserver  of 
men ! 

Eighth  Month  9th. — I  feel  like  a  prisoner  in  bonds.  Last 
Monthly  Meeting  I  obtained  liberty  to  visit  some  families 
belonging  to  my  own  Monthly  Meeting,  and  some  who  are 
not  members ;  also  to  appoint  some  meetings  amongst  those 
not  in  membership  with  us.  I  have  visited  fourteen  families 
and  appointed  two  meetings,  which  afforded  me  some  relief 
and  peace,  as  respected  those  families  and  meetings.  But 
oh,  the  conflicts  of  my  spirit  for  some  time  past;  the  Lord 
only  knows  the  trials  to  which  I  am  subjected;  the  tempta- 
tions, the  buffetings,  &c.,  of  the  unwearied  enemy  of  my  soul. 
In  most  of  the  families  visited,  and  in  the  meetings  appointed, 
a  sweet  and  undoubted  evidence  was  given  me,  that  it  was 
the  Lord's  requisition  which  induced  this  visit ;  and  that  He 
verified  his  promise  which  He  made  me  when  I  set  out,  viz : 
"  I  will  go  before  thee  and  be  thy  rearward ; "  yet  since  my 
way  seemed  to  close  up,  the  enemy  has  tried  in  many  deep- 
laid  plans  to  shake  my  faith  in  that  all-protecting  power 
which  has  so  lately  been  to  me  as  a  sun  and  a  shield,  and 
who  at  times,  whilst  engaged  in  this  little  visit,  enabled  me 
"out  of  weakness  to  become  strong,"  to  "  dip  my  foot  in  oil, 
and  to  tread  upon  high  places,"  but  proportionate  to  this 
feeling  of  trust,  confidence  and  rejoicing  in  the  Lord,  hath 
since  been  my  descendings,  temptations  and  tossings,  that  I 
have  been  led  to  remember  this  language  of  the  Psalmist, 


82  JOURNAL    OF  [1848. 

viz :  "  They  that  go  down  to  the  sea  in  ships  that  do  busi- 
ness in  great  waters ;  these  see  the  works  of  the  Lord,  and 
his  wonders  in  the  deep.  For  He  comrnandeth  and  raiseth 
the  stormy  wind,  which  lifteth  up  the  waves  thereof.  They 
mount  up  to  the  heaven,  they  go  down  again  to  the  depths; 
their  soul  is  melted  because  of  trouble.  They  reel  to  and 
fro,  and  stagger  like  a  drunken  man,  and  are  at  their  wit's 
end.  Then  they  cry  unto  the  Lord  in  their  trouble,  and  He 
bringeth  them  out  of  their  distresses.  Oh,  that  men  would 
praise  the  Lord  for  his  goodness,  and  for  his  wonderful  works 
to  the  children  of  men." 

llth. — Very  poor  and  tried  in  mind,  and  my  bodily  strength 
small.  Oh,  when  will  better  days  arrive?  I  who,  a  short 
time  ago,  thought  it  my  place  to  go  from  house  to  house, 
and  from  place  to  place,  to  encourage  the  people  to  seek  the 
Lord  with  their  whole  heart,  that  He  might  be  found  of 
them.  I  who  felt  a  holy  confidence  to  declare  unto  them, 
not  merely  in  words,  but  in  power,  that  none  ever  yet  trusted 
in  the  Lord  and  were  confounded  or  disappointed  ;  but  those 
who  sought  Him  with  the  whole  heart,  who  dedicated  their 
all  unto  Him,  were  amply  repaid  a  hundred  fold  in  this 
world,  and  in  the  world  to  come  life  everlasting.  I  who  felt 
my  soul  poured  forth  in  supplication  for  my  people — my 
neighbors,  and  at  times  for  the  whole  human  family.  I,  who 
so  lately  felt  at  times  the  voice  of  thanksgiving  and  melody 
in  my  heart,  unto  which  no  sorrow  was  added.  What  am 
I  now? — a  bruised  reed,  not  capable  of  measuring  or  di- 
viding anything  aright.  Oh  Lord  God  of  hosts;  thou  only 
knowest  why  thou  hast  permitted  this  fiery  trial  of  faith  to 
come  upon  me ;  give  me  patience  to  endure  until  thou  arise 
for  my  help,  for  vain  is  the  help  of  man.  When  thou  hidest 
thy  face  we  are  troubled  ;  when  thou  unveilest  thyself,  and 
showest  us  the  light  of  thy  countenance,  there  is  no  joy  com- 


1848.]  ANN    BRANSON.  83 

parable  thereto,  blessed  be  thy  name,  I  will  yet  hope  in  thy 
mercy;  and  oh  enable  me  to  wait  all  the  days  of  my  ap- 
pointed time  until  my  change  come. 

13th. — Paid  a  religious  visit  to  an  individual  who  pro- 
fesses to  believe  that  all  religious  denominations  are  doing 
more  harm  than  good  ;  and  insists  that  a  moral  life  is  all 
that  is  required  of  man ;  that  if  people  are  upright  in  their 
dealings  one  with  another,  and  do  not  commit  any  gross  sins, 
it  is  all-sufficient  for  them.  In  this  opportunity  with  him 
and  his  family,  I  had  to  reason  with  him  concerning  right- 
eousness, temperance,  and  judgment  to  come.  I  had  to  tell 
him  that  my  spirit  travailed  for  none  more  than  that  class 
of  persons  who  thus  reasoned  away  religious  feelings,  and 
religious  duties;  that  I  well  knew  the  bitter  fruit  such  a 
course  would  produce;  that  I  had  seen  the  time  when  I 
thought  a  moral  life  might  do  for  me;  but  when  death  stared 
me  in  the  face — when  affliction's  rod  was  laid  heavy  upon 
me — when  the  hand  of  the  Lord  was  laid  heavy  upon  me, 
I  then  felt  the  need  of  religion ;  I  then  wanted  that  peace 
which  the  world  cannot  give — that  peace  which  can  satisfy 
the  soul,  and  which  cannot  be  obtained  without  a  surrender 
of  the  whole  heart  unto  the  Lord  ;  becoming  prostrate  be- 
fore Him ;  sanctified  and  purified  in  his  holy  sight.  I  hope 
the  opportunity  will  not  be  wholly  forgotten,  or  of  no  effect. 
For  a  time  he  appeared  to  fortify  himself  against  all  that 
was  said ;  but  before  the  opportunity  ceased,  I  believe,  the 
power  of  truth  came  over  him ;  his  heart  smote  him,  and, 
in  spite  of  all  his  resistance,  showed  conviction.  My  spirit 
craves  his  return  to  the  Father's  house  from  which  he  has 
so  widely  strayed;  that  the  Lord  may  bring  him  down  into 
the  valley  of  humiliation,  and  finally  prepare  him  for  death 
when  it  comes. 

Tenth  Month  17th. — Various  have  been  the  conflicts  and 


84  JOURNAL     OF  [1848. 

deep  the  baptisms  and  wadings  of  my  spirit  of  latter  time. 
I  have  felt  it  required  of  me  in  the  late  family  visit  in  which 
I  have  been  engaged,  not  only  to  go  to  a  number  of  families 
who  were  not  members  of  our  religious  Society,  but  also  to 
some  houses,  whose  inhabitants  were  entire  strangers  to  me ; 
and  whose  names  were  unknown,  except  by  inquiry  at  the 
time ;  feeling  attracted  to  the  houses  as  we  passed  them,  and 
feeling  the  woe  if  I  did  not  give  up  to  go  in.  Trying  as  this 
service  was  to  flesh  and  blood,  it  is  nothing  to  compare  to  a 
wounded  conscience  ;  for  when  I  have  shrunk  from  the  ful- 
filment of  my  duty  herein,  it  hath  brought  great  distress 
upon  my  mind,  so  that  I  have  been  led  to  say  for  the  sake 
of  peace,  "  here  I  am  Lord,  do  what  thou  wilt  with  me." 
Previous  to  a  late  engagement  in  several  families  of  this  de- 
scription, I  was  near  three  days  at  a  Friend's  house,  shut  up 
without  any  clear  opening  whatever ;  but  the  command  was 
to  be  still.  What  will  my  friends  say  of  me  ?  was  a  query 
that  often  crossed  my  mind.  But  the  answer  of  my  Heav- 
enly Father  was  on  this  wise — "  Thy  time,  thy  health,  and 
thy  faculties  are  mine.  I  have  a  right  to  do  with  them  and 
with  thee  as  seemeth  unto  me  good."  Thus  did  I  remain, 
until  a  little  opening  appeared  in  a  remote  neighborhood, 
where  a  few  members  were  scattered.  After  we  arrived 
there  and  had  visited  most  of  those  who  were  members,  I 
felt  hedged  in  on  every  side ;  and  began  to  wonder  whether 
I  should  ever  get  away  from  there  alive ;  but  as  I  endeavored 
to  turn  my  mind  unto  the  Lord,  and  to  seek  for  strength 
and  ability  to  do  his  will,  it  came  into  my  mind  to  inquire 
of  the  Friend  at  whose  house  we  were,  concerning  his  chil- 
dren, who  had  married  out  of  Society ;  where  they  were  set- 
tled, and  being  informed  that  several  of  them  were  near-by, 
I  soon  saw  I  must  go  to  their  houses,  as  well  as  to  some 
others  which  we  had  passed,  to  whose  inhabitants  we  were 


1848.]  ANN    BRANSON.  85 

entire  strangers.  This  dedication,  though  greatly  in  the 
cross,  yielded  peace. 

20th. — Oh,  gracious  Father,  my  heart  is  greatly  in  need 
of  thy  healing  balm.  My  spirit  is  wounded,  and  a  wounded 
spirit  who  can  bear.  I  have  not  been  willing  enough  to 
suffer  for  thy  precious  truth's  sake,  for  the  sake  of  my  dear 
Redeemer,  who  died  for  me.  Oh  !  enable  me  to  become  re- 
signed to  thy  blessed  will,  whatever  it  may  cost  me,  dearest 
Father  give  me  not  over  to  a  reprobate  mind  ;  for  thou  hast 
all  power,  and  can  enable  me  to  drink  the  remaining  bitter 
draughts  which  thou  mayest  dispense,  or  permit  for  me. 
Dearest  Lord,  remember  mine  affliction,  and  enable  me  to 
say  in  deed  and  in  truth,  "thy  kingdom  come,  thy  will  be 
done"  in  me,  and  by  me,  and  through  me,  unworthy  worm 
as  I  am.  Oh !  "  let  not  thine  hand  spare,  nor  thine  eye 
pity"  me,  until  thou  cause  me  to  surrender  my  will  in  all 
things  unto  thy  holy  will.  Dearest  Father,  look  down  with 
an  eye  of  compassion,  and  behold  my  distress;  and  with  the 
crook  of  thy  love,  in  thine  own  way  and  time,  turn  this 
gloom  into  sunshine,  and  fit,  and  prepare  me ;  though  it  be 
through  great  tribulation  for  a  mansion  in  the  heavens. 

In  my  late  family  visit,  I  fear  that  I  have  not  been  wil- 
ling enough  at  all  times  to  bear  my  burden  with  Christian 
patience  and  resignation.  The  language  of  my  heart  hath 
often  been — thou  requirest  hard  things.  Oh,  Lord !  if  thou 
deal  thus  with  me,  take  away  my  life,  for  my  burthen  is 
greater  than  I  know  how  to  endure.  And  I  have  felt  the 
truth  of  this  saying  of  our  blessed  Lord — "  Whosoever  he 
be  that  forsaketh  not  all  that  he  hath,  cannot  be  my  disci- 
ple." Yet  I  know  not  that  I  ever  had  more  cause  to  marvel 
at  the  glorious  manifestations  of  light  and  strength  vouch- 
safed in  times  of  great  need,  than  in  this  visit.  But  in  times 
of  great  proving,  the  exercise  through  which  I  had  to  pass, 


86  JOURNAL    OF  [1848. 

seemed  sometimes  almost  insupportable ;  so  that  sleep  was 
often  taken  from  me ;  and  the  desire  for  food  was  not  known : 
and  now  should  further  provings  be  necessary,  and  a  requi- 
sition again  to  go  forth,  plainly  manifested  ;  I  crave  to  be- 
come resigned  to  his  will,  who  hath  a  right  to  dispose  of  us 
as  seemeth  unto  Him  good  ;  though  it  may  lead  us  to  become 
as  spectacles  to  the  world,  to  angels,  and  to  men.  Oh,  may 
the  short  space  of  my  existence  here  be  spent  to  the  honor 
of  my  God  ;  and  may  I  count  nothing  too  dear  to  part  with 
for  his  blessed  name's  sake,  that  the  winding  up  of  my  days 
may  be  peace. 

28th. — I  feel  it  to  be  a  time  of  great  moment  to  me.  The 
Isaacs  are  called  for,  and  if  I  omit  to  surrender  all  up  into 
the  hands  of  the  Lord,  great  will  be  my  loss.  I  crave  to 
become  resigned  to  my  Heavenly  Father's  will  in  all  things ; 
but  of  myself  I  cannot  become  resigned.  Dearest  Father, 
grant  me  resignation  to  thy  will,  and  enable  me  to  dedicate 
body,  soul  and  spirit  to  thee,  thine  I  am,  and  thine  I  desire 
to  be,  with  acceptance,  through  thy  well-beloved  Son,  who 
gave  himself  a  ransom  for  me. 

Eleventh  Month  3rd. — The  enemy  is  continually  endeav- 
oring to  persuade  me  that  I  shall  never  be  able  to  hold  out 
to  the  end ;  that  I  shall  "  one  day  fall  by  the  hand  of  Saul." 
But  the  exercise  of  my  spirit  is,  when  of  ability  to  crave 
anything  for  myself;  that  the  Lord  would  not  spare  me  nor 
forsake  me,  but  make  of  me  just  what  He  would  have  me  to 
be.  A  few  moments  of  sunshine  now  and  then  ;  and  a  calm 
and  peaceful  mind,  which  is  at  times  my  experience,  con- 
vinces me  how  possible  it  would  be  for  my  Heavenly  Father 
•to  change  the  storm  into  a  calm,  and  the  midnight  gloom 
into  the  light  of  the  glorious  day.  When  the  "  Son  of  right- 
eousness is  pleased  to  arise  with  healing  in  his  wings,"  how 
glorious  is  his  work  and  appearance  in  the  heart.  Or  when 


1848.]  ANN     BRANSON.  87 

He  is  pleased  to  hide  himself,  who  then  can  behold  Him ; 
whether  it  be  done  against  a  nation,  or  against  a  man  only. 
If  the  deep  wadings,  tossings,  and  conflicts  of  spirit,  through 
which  I  have  passed,  and  am  passing ;  and  may  yet  have 
to  endure,  only  have  a  tendency  to  refine  and  purify  me, 
and  make  me  a  vessel  fit  to  bear  the  inscription  of  holiness 
unto  the  Lord,  it  will  be  enough.  Oh,  my  soul  rejoice  and 
be  exceeding  glad  because  of  these  dispensations,  if  in  the 
winding  up  of  thy  pilgrimage  here,  an  admission  into  the 
realms  of  never-ending  felicity,  and  joy,  be  given  thee. 
"Count  it  all  joy,"  said  an  experienced  Apostle,  "  when  ye 
fall  into  divers  temptations,"  knowing  that  the  trial  of  your 
faith  is  much  more  precious  than  gold  or  silver. 

I  know  not  that  I  have  ever  felt  so  broken  to  pieces  be- 
fore the  Lord,  as  in  the  late  family  visit,  in  which  I  have 
been  engaged ;  and  for  wise  purposes  known  only  unto  Him ; 
I  have  been  kept  from  returning  the  Minute  granted  me  in 
the  Seventh  Month  last;  though  it  is  greatly  in  the  cross  so 
long  to  feel  under  the  exercise  of  a  visit,  which  I  had  hoped 
to  get  through  with  in  a  few  weeks  after  obtaining  liberty 
to  perform  it.  But  when  I  consider  that  for  years  previous 
to  laying  this  prospect  before  my  friends,  it  had  at  times 
dwelt  with  great  weight  upon  my  mind,  I  wish  not  now  to 
draw  back  from  making  any  visit  to  any  one,  or  to  any 
family  which  the  truth  requires ;  for  I  have  often  said  in  my 
heart  in  going  from  one  house  to  another,  greatly  in  the 
cross ;  surely  the  dregs  of  the  cup  of  suffering  will  be  wrung 
out,  when  this  visit  shall  have  been  accomplished ;  and  had 
it  not  been  for  the  help  of  Him  who  layeth  nothing  upon 
us  but  what  He  will  enable  us  to  bear ;  if  we  look  unto  Him 
with  a  single  eye — had  it  not  been  for  his  help,  making  a 
way  for  me  where  there  appeared  no  way,  I  should  have 
utterly  fainted  and  given  out.  Blessed  be  his  name,  I  will 


88  JOURNAL     OF  [1848. 

yet  strive  to  serve  Him  more  faithfully.  Enable  me,  holy 
Father !  to  wrestle  for  the  blessing  until  the  break  of  day, 
that  I  may  not  be  one  of  those  who  draw  back  unto  the  per- 
dition of  the  ungodly. 

18th. — I  have  felt  that  it  would  be  best  for  me  to  record 
my  feelings  of  yesterday  evening.  After  our  Quarterly 
Meeting,  which  to  me  was  a  very  trying  one,  having  sat  un- 
der a  painful,  lifeless,  wordy  ministry ;  a  secret  breathing 
was  begotten  in  my  heart  on  this  wise — "  Oh,  for  the  sub- 
stance of  religion,  for  the  life-giving  presence  of  Him  whom 
we  profess  to  serve."  Soon  after  which  a  solemnity  of  feel- 
ing and  song  of  praise  filled  my  heart  comparable  to  this — 
"  My  soul  doth  magnify  the  Lord  ;  and  my  spirit  doth  re- 
joice in  God  my  Saviour."  Such  seasons  of  refreshment 
from  the  presence  of  the  Lord,  how  humbling  to  one,  the 
language  of  whose  heart  often  is — "  My  way  is  hid  from  the 
Lord,  and  my  judgment  is  passed  over  from  my  God."  I 
crave  that  no  poor,  tried,  distressed  mortal  man,  woman  or 
child  may  despair  of  the  mercy  of  God  in  Christ  Jesus;  how 
have  I  been  brought  into  sympathy,  and  my  spirit  travailed 
with,  and  for  the  afflicted,  the  tossed  and  the  tempted ;  how 
have  I  been  as  it  were  in  the  deeps,  where  the  weeds  have 
been  wrapped  about  my  head  ;  where  no  hand  save  that  of 
the  Lord's  could  succor.  Oh,  trust  in  the  Lord,  whoever 
thou  art ;  and  whatever  thy  trials  may  be,  who  art  seeking 
after  durable  riches  and  righteousness ;  "  trust  in  the  Lord 
forever,  for  in  the  Lord  Jehovah  is  everlasting  strength  ; " 
for  out  of  the  pit,  and  from  the  pit  of  despair,  hath  the  Lord 
raised  me  up.  He  hath  also  "  put  a  new  song  into  my  mouth, 
even  praises  to  his  name ; "  rejoice,  oh  my  soul,  with  trem- 
bling ;  yea,  rejoice  and  be  exceeding  glad  that  thy  God  hath 
not  forsaken  thee,  hath  not  forgotten  thee ;  when  thou  wast 
nigh  the  grave  He  raised  thee  up ;  when  thou  stumbled  and 


1848.]  ANN    BRANSON.  89 

fell  like  a  weak  young  child,  he  raised  thee  up ;  when  thy 
near  and  dear  relatives,  one  after  another,  were  taken  from 
thee,  He  gave  thee  strength  to  bear  the  loss  with  resigna- 
tion. And  now,  when  thy  way  seems  through  a  narrow  and 
thorny  path,  He  doth  at  seasons  show  himself  marvellous 
unto  thee ;  tremble  thou  before  Him  and  keep  the  word  of 
his  patience,  that  thou  may  be  accounted  worthy,  through 
the  Son  of  his  love,  of  protection  and  peace. 

To-day,  when  returning  from  our  Meeting  for  Worship, 
which  to  me  was  a  solemn  time  in  silence ;  this  language 
sweetly  revived  in  my  mind — "  For  a  small  moment  have  I 
forsaken  thee ;  but  with  great  mercies  will  I  gather  thee. 
In  a  little  wrath  I  hid  my  face  from  thee  for  a  moment ; 
but  with  everlasting  kindness  will  I  have  mercy  on  thee, 
saith  the  Lord  thy  Redeemer."  Oh,  this  is  choice  food  of 
encouragement  and  consolation,  not  to  be  trifled  with,  and 
lavished  out  to  others ;  but  for  the  sake  of  some  poor,  tried, 
tossed  and  tempted  ones,  who  may  think  their  way  the  most 
gloomy  and  discouraging  of  any  other,  do  I  record  this ;  be- 
lieving the  Lord  is  able  to  change  the  fruitful  field  into  a 
barren  wilderness,  and  the  barren  wilderness  into  a  fruitful 
field,  and  it  seems  to  me  that  I  can  do  no  less  than  acknow- 
ledge his  might,  and  his  power,  who  alone  is  worthy  of  all 
praise  and  thanksgiving.  "  Bless  the  Lord,  oh  my  soul,  and 
all  that  is  within  me,  bless  his  holy  name." 

22nd. — Passed  our  Monthly  Meeting  under  great  exer- 
cise of  spirit ;  not  feeling  at  liberty  to  return  the  Minute 
granted  me  in  the  Seventh  Month  last  to  visit  families.  Oh, 
the  wormwood  and  gall ;  if  it  be  to  reduce  and  humble  me, 
thy  will,  oh  God,  be  done. 

Twelfth  Month  3rd. — To-day  sat  in  our  Meeting  for  Wor- 
ship, with  my  spirit  bowed  down  in  supplication  for  light 
and  strength  to  pursue  the  path  of  duty  myself;  and  for  the 
7 


00  JOURNAL    OF  [1849. 

Lord's  presence  in  our  assemblies.  Thought  I  could  adopt 
the  language  of  my  dear  sister  Lydia  on  her  death-bed,  viz : 
"  Surely  I  could  not  seek  the  Lord  so  earnestly,  if  his  pres- 
ence was  not  near  me."  Oh,  Lord,  strengthen  me  to  do  thy 
will,  that  I  may  be  thine  here,  and  thine  hereafter.  Thy  will 
be  done  in  me,  and  by  me,  and  through  me.  Amen  and 
amen. 

First  Month  9th,  1849. — Surely  I  have  never  been  so  long, 
and  so  much  like  a  prisoner  in  bonds  as  of  latter  times.  It 
is  now  nearly  six  months  since  I  obtained  liberty  to  visit  the 
families  of  my  own  Monthly  Meeting,  and  some  not  in  mem- 
bership with  us.  I  have  visited  about  one  hundred  and 
forty  families;  several  of  whom  were  not  in  membership 
with  us,  and  some  to  whom  I  was  an  entire  stranger.  But 
for  nearly  three  months  past  my  way  has  been  closed  up,  and 
no  opening  to  return  my  Minute  to  the  Monthly  Meeting. 
Oh,  gracious  God !  thou  only  knowest  the  depths  of  distress 
into  which  my  spirit  hath  again  and  again  been  plunged  ; 
longing  desires  have  been  raised  in  my  heart  after  thee,  and 
to  be  found  thy  humble,  dependent  child.  Oh,  look  down 
with  an  eye  of  compassion  upon  me  ;  prosper  thy  own  work ; 
and  let  it  take  what  strokes  it  may  to  purify  me,  "  let  not 
thine  hand  spare "  me  until  thou  art  pleased  to  say,  it  is 
enough. 

10th. — On  taking  my  seat  to-day  in  our  Week-day  Meet- 
ing, my  mind  was  quickly  brought  into  a  solemn  considera- 
tion of  our  frailty  and  unworthiness,  and  I  could  not  suppress 
the  rising  tear.  An  humble  hope  lives  in  my  heart,  that  the 
Lord  will  not  utterly  forsake  me ;  but  when  He  hath  tried 
me,  I  shall  come  forth  the  better  for  all  my  proving.  Oh, 
how  much  better  is  one  moment  in  his  presence  than  a  thou- 
sand void  thereof;  though  they  may  be  spent  in  the  midst 
of  our  earthly  friends,  and  those  too  whom  we  love ;  yet  in 


1849.]  ANN     BRANSON.  91 

the  absence  of  the  beloved  of  souls,  how  can  my  spirit  but 
mourn  ?  Oh,  that  I  was  more  worthy,  and  willing  to  suffer 
for  the  blessed  Truth.  Then  shall  I  not  be  ashamed  when 
I  have  respect  unto  all  thy  commandments.  "  Lord  teach 
me  to  number  my  days,  that  I  may  know  how  frail  I  am, 
and  apply  my  heart  unto  wisdom."  My  spirit  bowed  in 
supplication  for  myself  and  friends,  though  no  vocal  utter- 
ance was  required  ;  and  unless  an  express  command  to  speak 
or  a  gentle  intimation  which  may  be  distinguished  from  the 
voice  of  the  stranger,  let  my  lips  be  sealed  in  silence,  and  I 
not  presume  to  utter  words  without  that  life-giving  sound 
which  renders  that  which  is  piped  or  harped,  acceptable  to 
the  anointed  ear  and  profitable  to  the  people. 

14th. — I  am  brought  into  great  extremity.  Oh,  Lord! 
look  down  with  an  eye  of  compassion  upon  me  in  my  present 
condition.  Thou  knowest  the  distress  that  I  feel,  and  how 
impossible  it  is  for  me  to  do  anything  towards  relief  without 
thy  superintending  and  supervening  power.  Look  down,  I 
beseech  thee,  and  gather  my  mind  into  a  trustful,  quiet,  re- 
signed frame.  I  ask  not  for  any  change  in  my  outward  cir- 
cumstances, or  for  a  multiplication  of  outward  enjoyments ; 
but  for  the  continuation  of  thy  protecting  power  and  pres- 
ence, to  an  unworthy  worm  of  the  dust.  Thou  knowest  the 
extremity  that  I  feel,  and  how  liable  I  am,  or  may  be,  to 
cast  away  my  confidence  in  thee,  and  sell  that  precious  in- 
heritance for  a  mess  of  pottage — something  for  the  fleshly 
part  to  feed  upon.  Oh,  forsake  me  not,  neither  let  thine  hand 
spare  me,  but  in  wrath  remember  mercy. 

18th. — My  mind  is  more  calm  and  quiet  than  yesterday. 
Scarcely  have  I  known  such  a  plunge  into  the  abyss  of  sor- 
row and  distress.  Scarcely  could  I  refrain  from  crying  aloud, 
"  My  God,  my  God,  why  hast  thou  forsaken  me;"  "why  art 
thou  so  far  from  helping  me?"  Verily,  is  there  not  a  cause 


92  JOURNALOF  [1849. 

for  my  sorrow?  When  I  look  around  and  see  the  lukewarm- 
ness  and  indifferency  prevailing  amongst  such  a  highly  pro- 
fessing people  as  we  are,  and  the  zeal  too  which  is  not  ac- 
cording to  the  knowledge  of  God,  how  can  I  but  mourn  ? 
But  this  is  not  all.  When  I  consider  my  own  weakness  and 
natural  tendency  to  corruption,  and  how  far  short  I  have 
come  of  filling  up  my  measure  of  suffering  and  exercise  for 
the  body's  sake,  which  is  the  Church ;  how  can  I  but  mourn? 
Lord  prove  me  and  try  me ;  make  me  white ;  fit  and  pre- 
pare me  for  a  mansion  in  heaven,  where  all  sorrow  and  sigh- 
ing shall  forever  flee  away. 

28th. — The  experience  of  this  day  is  worth  recording. 
After  a  night  spent  in  the  most  indescribable  anguish  of 
spirit,  how  hath  the  Lord  interposed,  and  by  his  Spirit  lifted 
up  a  standard  against  the  floods  of  the  enemy.  On  taking 
my  seat  to-day  in  our  religious  meeting ;  this  language  ran 
through  my  mind — "  I  will  bear  the  indignation  of  the  Lord 
until  He  plead  my  cause,  and  execute  judgment  for  me." 
Which  was  soon  followed  by  this — "The  Lord  on  high  is 
mightier  than  the  noise  of  many  waters ;  yea,  than  the  mighty 
waves  of  the  sea."  Oh,  how  did  the  Lord  still  the  tumult 
of  my  soul.  He  arose,  and  rebuked  the  winds  and  the  waves, 
and  behold  there  was  a  great  calm.  "Bless  the  Lord,  oh, 
my  soul,  and  all  that  is  within  me,  bless  his  holy  name.  Bless 
the  Lord,  oh,  my  soul,  and  forget  not  all  his  benefits ;  who 
forgiveth  all  thine  iniquities ;  who  healeth  all  thy  diseases ; 
who  redeemeth  thy  life  from  destruction ;  who  crowneth  thee 
with  loving  kindness  and  tender  mercies ;  who  satisfieth  thy 
mouth  with  good  things ;  so  that  thy  youth  is  renewed  like 
the  eagle's.  The  Lord  executeth  righteousness  and  judg- 
ment for  all  that  are  oppressed." 

Fourth  Month  9th. — Gracious  God !  Thou  who,  in  days 
past,  was  my  "  Urim  and  my  Thummin ; "  so  that  I  had 


1849.]  ANN    BRANSON.  93 

no  need  to  ask,  who  it  was,  or  what  it  was ;  knowing  that  it 
was  thy  light,  grace,  truth  and  power,  over  and  above  all  in 
me,  that  enabled  me  to  say  in  the  midst  of  suffering,  and 
prospect  of  severe  trials  and  suffering — "  Not  as  I  will,  but 
as  thou  wilt."  Oh !  enable  me,  gracious  Father,  once  more 
to  bow  down  before  thee  in  humble,  heart-felt  resignation 
and  obedience  to  thy  holy  will ;  here  I  am,  do  with  me,  make 
of  me,  what  seemeth  unto  thee  good.  Thou  who  seest  my 
condition,  grant  light  and  strength  to  move  and  walk  in. 
Dearest  Father !  forgive  mine  iniquities,  pass  by  my  trans- 
gressions, and  remember  my  sins  no  more.  Help  thou  the 
helpless  ;  thou  only  and  alone  canst  comfort,  help  and  satisfy 
my  soul.  Lord !  deliver  me,  I  beseech  thee,  from  mine  ene- 
mies which  war  against  my  soul,  and  enable  me  to  say — 
"  Thine  is  the  power,  and  the  wisdom,  and  the  glory  for- 
ever." 

Fifth  Month  26th.— Oh,  holy  Father!  look  down,  I  be- 
seech thee,  upon  a  poor,  unworthy  worm  of  the  dust ;  enable 
me  to  follow  thee  in  the  regeneration.  Thou  knowest  my 
frailties  and  shortcomings ;  have  compassion  upon  me,  for 
thou  knowest  the  revilings  of  the  enemy,  and  his  tempta- 
tions, and  how  impossible  it  is  for  me  to  escape  his  wiles, 
without  thy  immediate  interposition  for  ray  deliverance. 
Thou  knowest  the  scoffs,  sneers  and  revilings  of  those  who 
watch  for  my  halting.  Oh  interpose,  I  beseech  thee,  and 
"  let  not  thine  hand  spare  nor  thine  eye  pity,"  until  thou 
execute  judgment  for  me. 

Ninth  Month  30th. — The  troubles  of  my  heart  are  en- 
larged unless  the  Lord  undertake  for  me ;  unless  He  take 
care  of  and  preserve  me,  I  shall  surely  sink  below  hope.  Oh 
help,  gracious  God,  and  sanctify  me,  body,  soul  and  spirit ; 
for  I  am  grievously  oppressed. 

Tenth  Month  25th.—"  I,  even  I,  am  he  that  blotteth  out 


94  JOURNAL     OF  [1849. 

thy  transgressions  as  a  thick  cloud  and  will  not  remember 
thy  sins."  This  comfortable  language  sprang  up  in  my 
heart  to  the  brightening  of  the  gloomy  prospect  before  me. 
The  Lord  only  knows  the  extent  of  the  misery  and  distress 
which  my  spirit  suffers  ;  and  why  it  is  thus  with  me.  Lord 
be  gracious  unto  me,  and  hear  my  supplication  which  I  make 
day  and  night  unto  thee. 

Eleventh  Month  3rd. — Surely  my  Heavenly  Father  has 
a  special  design  concerning  me  to  be  accomplished  in  thus 
permitting  the  floods  of  unutterable  distress  to  rise  higher 
and  higher,  until  it  seems  as  if  I  was  verging  to  that  point 
where  all  consolation  ends.  Surely,  there  was  wisdom  in 
those  words  addressed  to  me  a  few  years  ago  by  a  dear 
Friend  on  her  death-bed,  viz :  "  Thou  hast  been  greatly 
favored ;  do  not  give  out,  nor  give  way  to  discouragement." 
The  enemy  is  permitted  to  tempt  and  try  me  far  more  than 
I  have  words  to  convey  an  adequate  idea  of.  Surely  it  is 
mercy,  everlasting  mercy,  that  hath  hitherto  enabled  me  to 
hope  against  hope,  to  cast  not  away  my  confidence  in  the 
Lord.  I  can  feel  for  the  miserable,  for  the  tossed,  and  the 
tempted ;  and  it  seems  to  me,  that  my  spirit  is  in  travail, 
and  bound  up  in  sympathy  with  the  afflicted  and  distressed. 
Oh,  my  soul,  struggle  on  and  let  not  go  thy  hold,  but  ask 
for  mercy,  unutterable,  everlasting  mercy.  I  remember,  when 
on  a  sick-bed  several  years  ago,  that  the  consolations  of  the 
Lord  were  so  abundantly  poured  into  my  soul ;  and  so  great 
and  wonderful  did  his  might  and  majesty  appear,  that  I 
thought,  then,  that  I  could  trust  in  his  mercy,  no  matter  how 
dark  and  gloomy  the  days  and  years  might  be  through  which 
I  might  have  to  pass. 

But  alas!  the  manna  gathered  yesterday  will  not  answer 
to  live  upon  to-day.  A  fresh  supply  of  that  faith  and  confi- 
dence which  enables  us  to  call  Jesus  Lord,  must  be  experi- 


1849.]  ANN     BRANSON.  95 

enced ;  or  where  will  we  land  ?  even  in  the  labyrinth  of 
doubt  and  dismay.  Despair  takes  hold  of  me,  and  in  vain 
I  recur  to  any  past  experience  of  my  life  for  consolation.  If 
the  Lord  help  me  not,  how  vain  is  every  sublunary  assist- 
ance. A  competence  of  the  good  things  of  this  life ;  the 
choice  blessings  of  faithful  and  interested  friends  fail,  utterly 
fail,  to  afford  that  consolation  which  the  hungry  and  thirsty 
soul  is  needing ;  and  which  if  not  obtained,  all  outward  en- 
joyments will  be  of  no  avail.  Strengthen  me,  oh  holy  Father, 
to  trust  in  thee,  the  Shepherd  and  Bishop  of  souls ;  thou 
knowest  that  I  desire  to  trust  in  thee,  to  love  and  serve  thee 
above  all.  Oh !  "  create  in  me  a  clean  heart  and  renew  a 
right  spirit  within  me,"  that  I  may  yet  praise  thee  on  the 
banks  of  deliverance ;  and  prepare  me  to  praise  thee  for- 
ever, whatever  strokes  it  may  take. 

Eleventh  Month. — It  has  now  been  more  than  a  year  since 
I  opened  my  mouth  in  our  Meetings  for  Worship  at  home, 
except  once.  The  Lord's  name  be  praised,  in  that  He  hath 
kept  me  from  offering  a  vain  oblation  in  words ;  or  like  Saul, 
to  offer  before  the  coming  of  Samuel.  Our  dear  friend  M. 
Kite  attended  our  last  Yearly  Meeting ;  and  I  think  was 
favored  to  enter  into  sympathy  with  the  suffering  seed.  How 
was  her  spirit  clothed  with  exercise  in  the  last  sitting  of  the 
meeting,  for  those  whose  harps  were  hung  on  the  willows, 
and  who  could  not  rejoice  while  the  true  seed  was  in  bond- 
age. My  spirit,  which  had  been  bowed  down  with  unutter- 
able distress  and  exercise,  said  amen  to  her  communication, 
and  could  rejoice  that  every  "  knee  had  not  bowed  to  Baal, 
nor  all  kissed  his  image ; "  though  it  seemed  that  the  floods 
of  the  dragon  were  poured  out  upon  the  true  Church,  to  de- 
stroy, if  possible,  the  true  seed  of  the  kingdom. 

9th. — My  mind  has  been  more  tranquil  for  a  few  days  past 
than  for  some  weeks  previous.  Until  the  "Son  of  righteous- 


96  JOURNAL    OF  [1849. 

ness  is  pleased  to  arise  with  healing  in  his  wings,"  mourning 
must  be  my  covering.  When  and  whilst  the  Lord  is  pleased 
to  keep  the  city,  there  can  no  harm  befall  it ;  but  when  He 
withdraweth  his  help,  where  shall  we  flee  for  succor,  or  when 
He  veileth  his  face  who  then  can  behold  him  ?  My  spirit 
has  been  mingling  with  the  miserable,  but  when  it  feels  calm 
and  composed,  confiding  in  the  mercy  of  God  in  Christ  Jesus, 
how  great  is  the  change.  Shall  I  ever  forget  the  days  of 
mourning  and  nights  of  grief  which  I  have  passed  through 
for  twelve  months  past.  Lord  forgive  the  impatience  of  my 
spirit  and  the  lamentations  of  my  soul,  for  when  the  bride- 
groom is  taken  away,  who  can  but  fast? 

14th. —  Visited  dear  cousin  Miriam  Ellis.  Soon  after 
taking  my  seat  in  her  room,  this  language  ran  through  my 
mind  :  "  A  holy  solemnity,  a  holy  convocation," — accom- 
panied with  a  belief  that  the  dear  sufferer  was  preparing 
for,  and  nearly  ready  to  be  gathered  into,  a  mansion  in 
heaven.  She  expressed  herself  as  being  in  a  comfortable 
state  of  mind,  saying,  she  had  heard  the  language,  and  she 
thought  that  she  knew  the  voice,  which  said  unto  her,  "  I 
will  never  leave  thee  nor  forsake  thee."  Repeating  the 
passage,  "  Great  and  marvellous  are  thy  works,  Lord  God 
Almighty ;  just  and  true  are  all  thy  ways,  thou  King  of 
Saints,  adding,  "if  any  one  ever  had  cause  thus  to  exclaim, 
it  is  /."  She  also  dwelt  with  emphasis  upon  the  mercy  of 
God  in  Christ  Jesus,  saying,  it  was  all  mercy — adorable, 
everlasting  mercy,  that  enabled  her  to  feel  calm,  and  com- 
posed, when  it  appeared  at  times  that'  her  breath  was  leav- 
ing her,  not  feeling  the  least  alarmed  thereat.  She  also 
dwelt,  at  some  length,  upon  the  situation  of  our  poor  So- 
ciety ;  expressing  her  belief,  that  those  only  who  remain 
faithful  unto  the  Lord,  that  experience  "judgment  laid  to 
the  line,  and  righteousness  to  the  plumb  line"  in  them- 


1849.]  ANN     BRANSON.  97 

selves,  would  be  enabled  to  stand  against  the  wiles  of  the 
devil ;  that  he  was  trying  to  lay  waste  the  whole  heritage 
of  God,  but  he  would  not  be  permitted  to  do  it ;  that  there 
would  be  a  remnant  preserved ;  but  she  believed  Friends 
would  have  to  come  out  of  the  mixture,  "Come  out  from 
among  them,  and  be  ye  separate,"  had  often  been  the  lan- 
guage of  her  heart,  particularly  of  latter  time.  She  wanted 
Friends  to  stand  plumb  for  the  precious  principles  and 
testimonies  given  us  to  bear ;  and  much  more  of  a  similar 
nature. 

19th. — Last  Seventh-day,  the  17th,  was  our  Quarterly 
Meeting.  After  the  shutters  were  closed,  and  near  the 
close  of  the  meeting,  I  had  to  speak  a  word  of  encourage- 
ment to  the  tribulated,  exercised  remnant  amongst  us,  who 
are  concerned  above  all  things  to  serve  the  Lord  faithfully; 
the  desire  of  whose  hearts  is  to  be  satisfied  with  nothing 
short  of  the  Truth  as  it  is  in  Jesus ;  and  though  these  have 
to  struggle  long  for  the  blessing,  hoping  at  times  even 
against  hope ;  yet  I  had  to  express  my  belief,  and  I  might 
have  expressed  my  experience  also,  that  the  Lord  would 
not  leave  nor  forsake  such  as  these ;  but  keep  them  in  the 
hollow  of  the  hand.  How  hath  He  stretched  out  his  hand 
for  my  help,  in  that  He  suffereth  me  not  to  become  wholly 
a  prey  to  the  enemy,  but  has  again  rescued  me  out  of  the 
mouth  of  the  lion,  to  speak  well  of  his  excellent  name. 
"  Lord,  what  shall  I  render  unto  thee  for  all  thy  mercies." 
I  feel,  and  have  felt,  that  I  am  much  behindhand  in  faith- 
fully occupying  the  gift  entrusted  to  me. 

Twelfth  Month  1st. — A  few  evenings  ago,  as  I  sat  con- 
sidering my  situation,  suddenly  and  unexpectedly,  my  feel- 
ings became  calm  and  composed,  tranquil  and  serene ;  and 
a  song  of  praise  filled  my  heart ;  so  that  I  said,  I  will  trust 
in  the  Lord,  and  not  distrust  his  mercy,  however  dark  and 


98  JOURNAL     OF  [1849. 

gloomy  the  days  and  the  nights.  Surely  something  will 
grow  out  of  the  year's  exercise — an  exercise  that  cannot  be 
told  to  the  full.  My  sorrow  has  often  been  so  great,  that 
I  could  scarcely  refrain  from  crying  aloud,  "  My  God,  my 
God,  why  hast  thou  forsaken  me ; "  yet  now  and  then  a 
comfortable  hope,  yea,  a  song  of  praise,  fills  my  heart ;  so 
that  I  can  scarcely  refrain  (as  was  the  case  a  few  evenings 
ago)  from  praising  his  name  aloud.  As  I  sat  in  meeting 
yesterday,  the  language  revived,  "  What  are  these  which 
are  arrayed  in  white  robes  ?  and  whence  came  they  ?  These 
are  they  which  came  out  of  great  tribulation,  and  have 
washed  their  robes,  and  made  them  white  in  the  blood  of  the 
Lamb.  And  a  trembling  hope  revived  that  if  I  struggle  on, 
I  might  become  one  of  these. 

8th. — To-day  attended  the  funeral  of  my  dear  cousin, 
Miriam  Ellis.  Truly  she  was  to  me  a  precious  friend ;  and 
we  were  united  in  spirit,  one  to  another,  as  well  as  nearly 
related  by  consanguinity,  and  yet  I  could  not  shed  a  tear 
or  weep  for  her.  This  language  was  sounding  in  my  ears  : 
"  Weep  not  for  me."  Her  close  was  a  peaceful,  happy  one  ; 
and  no  room  is  left  to  doubt  that  she  has  joined  the  heav- 
enly host  to  ascribe  thanksgiving  and  praise  unto  the  Lord 
God  and  the  Lamb  forever. 

18th. — Went  with  others  of  the  school  committee  to  the 
school  taught  by  J.  S.,  and  had  some  religious  communica- 
tion to  hand  forth  to  the  children.  I  am  almost  a  wonder 
to  myself,  and  perhaps  to  others ;  so  tried,  proven  and 
tempted ;  and  yet  I  cannot  feel  peace  without,  now  and 
then,  encouraging  others  to  seek  after  and  persevere  in  the 
strait  and  narrow  way  that  leads  to  life.  Surely  there  is 
no  other  way  to  the  kingdom  of  heaven  than  by  the  way 
of  the  cross  ;  let  others  try  to  smooth  down  and  present  to 
the  view  of  the  young  and  rising  generation,  any  other  way 


1849.]  ANN     BRANSON.  99 

or  path  than  that  of  the  cross  to  the  kingdom.  The  testi- 
mony of  my  heart  and  experience  is  that  there  is  no  way 
short  of  becoming  crucified  to  the  world,  and  the  world 
unto  us,  that  will  lead  to  peace.  For  this  end  came  our 
blessed  Saviour,  even  to  destroy  the  works  of  the  devil ; 
and  if  judgment  is  to  be  laid  to  the  line,  and  righteousness 
to  the  plumb  line,  where  is  the  work  to  be  begun  and 
finished  but  in  the  temple  of  the  heart.  My  heart  sickens 
at  the  thought  of  the  modifiers,  that  are  rising  up  and  are 
already  risen  up,  to  "  sew  pillows  to  all  arm  holes,"  to  make 
people  feel  easy  with  that  which  should  be  a  burden  to  them ; 
to  make  them  think  they  can  get  to  heaven  without  such  a 
strict  conformity  to  the  will  of  God  as  the  gospel  of  Christ 
enjoins.  Oh  !  ye  superficial  daubers  with  untempered  mor- 
tar— ye  who  sew  pillows  to  all  arm  holes ;  trying  to  make 
the  way  to  the  kingdom  of  heaven  appear  easier  than  it  is ; 
as  far  as  your  ingenuity  can  devise ;  that  having  begun  in 
the  Spirit,  we  can  be  made  perfect  by  the  flesh ;  the  time 
will  come  upon  you,  when  neither  you  nor  your  daubing 
can  stand  the  storm.  The  end  will  come  and  try  your 
works  and  you ;  and  it  will  be  seen  that  your  "  covering  is 
narrower  than  that  ye  can  wrap  yourselves  in  it,  and  your 
bed  to  be  shorter,  than  that  you  can  stretch  yourselves  on 
it."  You  cannot  cover  yourselves  with  the  covering  that  ye 
have  devised,  neither  can  you  rest  yourselves  comfortably 
upon  the  resting-places  that  ye  have  made  or  chosen  for 
yourselves ;  and  as  to  the  pillows  that  ye  have  sewed  to 
the  arm  holes  of  others,  these  will  be  torn  away,  and  great 
will  be  the  astonishment  and  amazement  of  those  who  are 
deceived  with  your  machinations  ;  when  they  see  you  and 
your  devices  brought  to  naught ;  when  they  behold  that 
nothing  but  the  pure  gold,  the  clean,  white  linen,  the  right- 
eousness of  saints  will  stand  them  instead  in  a  trying  hour. 


100  JOURNAL     OF  [1849. 

Then  how  will  they  lament  that  ever  they  were  seduced 
and  drawn  aside  to  believe  a  lie ;  to  believe  that  there  is  any 
middle  path  to  the  kingdom.  How  will  they  "be  as  when 
an  hungry  man  dreameth,  and  behold,  he  eateth ;  but  he 
awaketh,  and  his  soul  is  empty ;  or,  as  when  a  thirsty  man 
dreameth,  and  behold,  he  drinketh  $  but  he  awaketh,  and 
behold  he  is  faint,  and  his  soul  hath  appetite :  so  shall  the 
multitude  of  all  the  nations  be  that  fight  against  Mount 
Zion. 

22nd. — Visited  a  merchant  who  has  obligated  himself  to 
furnish  money  to  a  considerable  company  of  men,  to  enable 
them  to  undertake  the  hazardous  and  unnecessary  journey 
to  California  to  get  gold.  For  several  weeks  my  mind  has 
been  so  arrested  and  exercised  with  the  subject,  that  I  was 
apprehensive  something  would  be  required  of  me  as  a  tes- 
timony against  this  procedure,  but  for  a  few  days  past  the 
burden  became  so  great  that  I  could  no  longer  doubt  that 
I  must  raise  my  voice  against  it,  and  that,  too,  to  the  chief 
contributor  and  encourager  of  the  project.  Accordingly  I 
endeavored  to  discharge  myself  faithfully,  and  have  thus 
far  been  satisfied.  Oh  !  the  condescension  of  Israel's  Shep- 
herd in  making  a  way  for  me  where  mountains  of  difficulty 
appeared ;  truly,  I  have  no  words  to  set  forth  his  mercy  to 
me.  The  fear  of  man  was  all  taken  away,  and  I  had  to 
speak  very  plainly  to  this  individual,  telling  him  that  I  be- 
lieved the  mind,  will  and  counsel  of  the  Lord  was  against 
the  procedure,  and  that  a  great  weight  of  responsibility  rested 
and  would  rest  upon  his  shoulders,  that  I  thought  if  he  would 
seek  to  know  the  will  of  the  Lord  herein,  and  obey  it,  that 
he  would  be  helped  to  withdraw  his  support  and  encourage- 
ment from  this  measure.  He  received  kindly  what  I  had  to 
say ;  acknowledged  that  he  believed  my  motives  were  good 
in  thus  advising  him,  and  he  could  not  say  but  my  send- 


I860.]  ANN     BRANSON.  101 

ments  were  correct,  but  he  had  not  viewed  the  subject  as  I 
viewed  it,  or  he  should  not  have  engaged  in  it.  I  thought 
he  felt  the  burden,  in  some  degree,  resting  on  his  own  shoul- 
ders, wheretit  properly  belongs;  and  I  felt,  in  a  considerable 
degree,  relieved  of  a  great  weight.  Several  of  the  men,  who 
are  going,  have  families  of  children,  and  were  in  a  comforta- 
ble way  of  living  as  to  the  outward.  What  folly,  indeed, 
to  leave  a  country  where  plenty  reigns,  and  where  the  honest 
and  industrious  can  procure  a  comfortable  subsistence,  to 
search  for  gold.  Alas !  alas !  what  will  these  poor  creatures 
do  when  overtaken  with  affliction  and  distress,  far  from 
their  friends  and  homes.  Gold !  gold !  thou  canst  not  pro- 
cure a  peaceful  mind  for  them. 


CHAPTER  V. 

EXERCISES  IN  HER  OWN  SELECT  MEETING  AND  THE  QUARTERLY  MEETING — 
ASA  BRANSON'S  FIRST  APPEARANCE  IN  THE  MINISTRY — A  RELIGIOUS  VISIT 

TO  THE  MEETINGS  COMPOSING  SALEM  AND  SPRINGFIELD  QUARTERS— A 
VISIT  TO  A  DYING  MAN  AFTER  HER  RETURN — HAD  TO  GO  BACK  TO  SALEM 
AND  THEREAWAY  TO  FINISH  THE  REQUIRED  SERVICE. 

First  Month  6th,  1850. — Attended  meeting  at  our  board- 
ing school,  and  was  enabled  to  cast  off  something  of  a  burden 
that  rested  upon  me.  After  the  evening  reading  of  this  day, 
a  quiet  and  holy  serenity  covered  my  mind,  and  I  believe 
the  same  canopy  of  heavenly  love  was  felt  in  a  degree  by 
others  present,  and  this  language  pervaded  my  heart,  "  Lo, 
the  winter  is  past,  the  rain  is  over  and  gone ;  the  time  of  the 
singing  of  birds  is  come,  and  the  voice  of  the  turtle  is  heard 
in  our  land."  And  I  thought  I  felt  the  truth  of  it  in  some 
degree  realized.  Oh,  how  good  it  is  to  wait  upon  the  Lord ; 
his  hand  is  not  shortened  that  it  cannot  save,  neither  his 
ear  heavy,  that  it  cannot  hear. 


102  JOURNAL    OF  [1850. 

Second  Month  22nd.— Last  Seventh-day,  the  16th  of  this 
month,  was  our  Quarterly  Meeting.  I  attended,  and  found 
my  mind  engaged  to  appear  in  the  ministry ;  also  the  day 
before,  in  our  select  meeting.  What  a  wonder  I  am  to 
myself,  very  often  feeling  like  a  dry  and  withered  branch, 
neither  life  nor  strength  to  call  upon  the  name  of  the  Lord 
for  help ;  but  only  in  sighs  and  groanings  which  cannot  be 
uttered.  Lord,  thou  only  knowest  why  it  is  thus  with  me. 
I  had,  in  the  Quarterly  Meeting,  to  warn  Friends  to  bow 
down  before  the  Lord,  to  become  so  prostrated  that  He 
might  yet  be  pleased  to  look  down  upon  us  with  an  eye 
of  compassion,  beginning  with  these  words :  "  No  weapon 
formed  against  thee  shall  prosper ;  and  every  tongue  that 
shall  rise  against  thee  in  judgment  thou  shalt  condemn." 
Expressing  my  belief  that  the  Lord's  faithful  will  assuredly 
experience,  (as  they  have  in  every  age  experienced)  this 
precious  promise  verified,  and  also  the  subsequent  portion  : 
"  This  is  the  heritage  of  the  servants  of  the  Lord,  and  their 
righteousness  is  of  me,  saith  the  Lord."  Staid  in  the  neigh- 
borhood of  Mt.  Pleasant,  and  on  the  18th  attended  the  funeral 
of  E.  H.,  a  young  Friend  removed  in  the  bloom  of  youth 
from  works  to  rewards.  There  my  mouth  was  again  opened 
with  these  words :  "  Daughters  of  Jerusalem,  weep  not  for 
me,  but  weep  for  yourselves  and  your  children  ; "  believing, 
we  had  abundant  more  need  to  weep  for  ourselves  and  for 
one  another,  than  for  the  dear  departed  one,  having  a  humble 
hope,  trust  and  confidence,  that  her  spirit  had  been  per- 
mitted to  enter  the  mansions  of  rest  and  peace.  On  the 
19th,  attended  Short  Creek  Monthly  Meeting,  where  my 
mouth  was  again  opened  in  the  ministry,  in  the  women's 
meeting,  beginning  with  the  words,  viz  :  "  Return  unto  me, 
oh,  backsliding  children,  and  I  will  return  unto  you  ;  I  will 
heal  all  your  backslidings  and  love  you  freely,  saith  the 


1850.]  ANN     BRANSON.  103 

Lord  ;  telling  them  that  I  believed  this  gracious  invitation 
had  long  been  held  out  to  them,  and  still  awaited  their  ac- 
ceptance ;  that  the  Lord  was  and  had  been  pleading  with 
them  to  return  unto  Him  and  bring  forth  fruits  meet  for 
repentance,  and  not  to  put  off  the  work.  My  heart  was 
enlarged  in  the  love  of  the  Gospel  towards  them,  and  I  had 
to  deal  very  plainly  with  them,  saying,  "  Ye  have  robbed 
God,  but  ye  say,  wherein  have  we  robbed  thee  ?  In  tithes 
and  offerings."  I  felt  much  peace  after  this  meeting,  and 
my  strength  and  confidence  renewed  in  the  Lord ;  that  I 
should  thus  open  my  mouth  through  the  constraining  in- 
fluence of  gospel  love,  in  a  solemn  warning  and  exhortation, 
not  to  put  off  the  work,  but  to  "  walk  in  the  Light,  whilst 
they  had  the  Light ; "  for  assuredly  the  time  would  come 
when  the  "  hail  would  sweep  away  the  refuge  of  lies,"  but 
the  Lord's  people  would  never  be  ashamed. 

Eleventh  Month  10th. — While  reading  in  the  Journal  of 
Thomas  Scattergood  this  evening,  I  was  strongly  reminded 
of  the  circumstance  recorded  in  the  Holy  Scriptures,  where 
the  dead  man  touching  the  bones  of  the  prophet  Elisha, 
revived  and  stood  upon  his  feet.  It  is  impossible  for  me  to 
describe  to  the  full  the  situation  of  my  poor,  tried  mind. 
I  have  thought  for  some  time  past  that  my  condition  re- 
sembled the  dead  or  the  dying.  Did  any  one  ever  pass 
through  what  I  do,  and  yet  live  ?  My  spiritual  life  seems 
almost  gone,  my  faith  and  hope  so  low,  my  temptations  so 
many,  that  I  am  ready,  at  times,  to  give  over  struggling  for 
life ;  yet  the  awful  situation  of  those  who  faint  and  give  out, 
after  having  put  their  hand  to  the  plough,  is  often  before 
me ;  accompanied  at  times  with  a  very  strong  desire  to  be 
enabled  to  hold  out  to  the  end.  Oh,  Lord !  strengthen  me, 
is  often  the  prayer  of  my  heart,  whilst  my  many  misgivings, 
and  shortcomings  are  before  me.  It  seems  that  I  could  weep 


104  JOURNAL    OF  [1851. 

often  and  much,  but  the  fountain  of  my  tears  is  dried  up. 
In  our  Meetings  for  Worship  I  generally  sit,  as  with  my 
mouth  in  the  dust ;  whilst  my  heart  is  lifted  up  in  prayer 
unto  God  ;  that  He  would  be  pleased  to  renovate  and  quicken 
us  into  a  more  lively  and  sensible  feeling  of  our  real  con- 
dition ;  into  more  hungering  and  thirsting  after  righteous- 
ness, loosening  us  from  the  worldly  spirit  that  is  eating 
up  every  green  thing.  I  can  truly  say,  everything  com- 
pared with  an  interest  in  Christ  Jesus — compared  with  a 
blessed  assurance  of  his  Divine  approbation  and  favor,  sinks 
in  my  view  into  utter  insignificance ;  and  yet  how  barren 
and  lifeless  He  often  permits  me  to  feel ;  but  if  this  be  for 
some  wise  purpose,  and  I  verily  believe  it  is,  his  name  be 
praised.  I  will  try  to  bear  it  with  patience.  How  did  our 
dear  friend  Thomas  Scattergood  pass  through  indescribable 
exercises,  tribulation  and  temptations,  both  in  England  and 
his  native  land,  and  yet  the  Lord  was  near  him,  and  pre- 
served him  through  all.  And  shall  such  an  one  as  I  hope 
in  his  mercy?  Yes,  I  will,  with  his  holy  assistance,  still 
struggle  and  strive  (and  may  it  be  lawfully)  for  the  mastery, 
casting  every  crown  at  his  holy  footstool;  for  this  is  the  only 
way  to  sing  triumphantly,  and  to  worship  Him  who  sitteth 
upon  the  throne  acceptably. 

Twelfth  Month  25th,  1851.— To-day  was  our  Monthly 
Meeting,  in  the  forepart  of  which  my  cousin  A.  B.  spoke  a 
a  few  words  in  testimony,  saying,  "  There  is  a  path  which 
no  fowl  knoweth,  and  which  the  vulture's  eye  hath  not 
seen ;  the  lion's  whelps  have  not  trodden  it,"  &c.,  remarking 
upon  the  straitness  of  that  way,  and  narrowness  of  that 
path  that  leads  to  life.  I  was  exceedingly  glad,  on  hearing 
him  open  his  mouth,  having  travailed  in  spirit  for  his  de- 
liverance from  that  which  kept  him  from  offering  unto  the 
Lord  that  which  I  had  for  some  time  felt  sensible  was  re- 


1852.]  ANN    BRANSON.  105 

quired  of  him,  though  I  had  not  named  it  to  him.  And  to- 
day, as  my  heart  was  lifted  up  in  silent  supplication  on  his 
behalf,  he  arose  on  his  feet  and  uttered  a  few  words  which 
affected  me  to  tears ;  fully  believing  it  was  the  Lord's  re- 
quiring, and  though  at  the  time  rather  unexpected  to  me. 
And  now  I  can  say,  as  dear  Mildred  RatclifF  once  said  to 
me,  speaking  of  the  ministry :  "  I  rejoice  with  trembling 
when  I  see  a  right  beginning."  I  rejoice,  but  I  tremble 
also,  knowing  the  many  ways  and  devices  of  the  enemy  to 
lead  astray  from  faithfully  following  the  Lord.  May  the 
Lord  keep  him  in  the  hollow  of  his  holy  hand.  May  He 
prune  and  dig  about  him,  and  if  need  be  cast  a  nauseous 
substance  about  him  ;  even  that  which  is  grievous  and 
greatly  contrary  to  the  natural  will,  so  that  fruit  may  be 
brought  forth  abundantly  to  the  praise  of  the  great  Hus- 
bandman. Amen,  sayeth  my  soul. 

31st. — I  was  instructed  and  encouraged  this  evening  in 
the  remembrance  of  the  Saviour's  words,  "  that  men  ought 
always  to  pray  and  not  to  faint."  "Shall  not  God  avenge 
his  own  elect,  who  cry  day  and  night  unto  Him,  though 
He  bear  long  with  them  ?  I  tell  you  that  He  will  avenge 
them  speedily."  The  words  of  Job  had  been  occupying  my 
mind :  "  Oh,  that  I  were  as  in  months  past ;  as  in  the  days 
when  God  preserved  me.  When  his  candle  shined  upon 
my  head  ;  arid  when  by  his  light  I  walked  through  dark- 
ness." Lord,  deal  with  me  as  thou  seest  best ;  bring  upon 
me  anything  which  may  tend  to  refine  and  purify  me,  that 
by  thy  light  I  may  walk  through  darkness. 

Third  Month  28th,  1852.— Let  none  of  the  poor,  tribulated 
followers  of  the  Lamb,  however  faint  at  times  they  may  be 
permitted  to  feel,  despair  of  the  mercy  and  protection  of  the 
Shepherd  of  Israel.  Let  none  who  are  sensible  of  the  striv- 
ings of  the  Lord's  holy  spirit  with  them  ;  and  who  feel  the 


106  JOURNAL    OF  [1852. 

stirrings  of  life  at  times  in  their  inner  parts,  despair  of  mercy. 
Let  them  wait  upon  the  Lord,  let  them  watch  for  the  arising 
of  his  power  to  enable  them  to  pray — let  them  wait  upon 
Him  whom  to  know  is  life  eternal.  He  can  make  waste 
mountains  and  hills  and  dry  up  all  their  herbs.  He  can 
make  the  rivers  islands  and  dry  up  the  pools.  He  can 
change  the  face  and  appearance  of  things  to  suit  himself, 
and  make  a  way  for  those  who  are  hedged  in  on  every  side. 
Trust  in  the  Lord,  you  who  are  tossed  about  as  with  a  mighty 
wind.  Look  unto  Him ;  despair  not  of  his  mercy ;  cleave 
unto  Him  in  the  darkest  hour.  This  is  your  privilege — 
avail  yourselves  of  it.  He  giveth  hope — He  giveth  life — 
He  giveth  strength.  He  will  give  you  ability  to  wait  upon 
Him,  even  when  you  feel  that  you  had  no  hope,  life  or 
strength.  Oh,  my  soul,  wait  upon  the  Lord.  Thou  hast 
experienced  many  dark  and  cloudy  days.  Thou  hast  often 
gone  mourning  on  thy  way,  ready  to  say,  "  My  hope  is  cut 
off  and  perished  from  before  the  most  high  God."  Wilt  thou 
not  trust  in  Him  who  hath  shown  unto  thee  his  adorable, 
unutterable,  unmerited,  everlasting  mercy,  through  Christ 
Jesus,  thy  Lord  ?  Yes,  thou  mayst  still  trust  in  Him  — 
thou  mayest  still  hope  in  his  mercy,  who  can  redeem,  fit, 
and  prepare  thee  for  endless  felicity  with  the  saints  in  Light. 
Amen. 

Seventh  Month  18th. — Left  home  on  a  religious  visit  to 
some  of  the  meetings  belonging  to  Salem  and  Springfield 
Quarterly  Meetings.  Arrived  at  Salem  on  the  20th,  and 
attended  the  Select  Quarterly  Meeting  in  the  afternoon. 
Had  nothing  to  communicate.  Next  day  at  Salem  Monthly 
Meeting  I  was  silent  throughout  and  felt  peaceful.  Next 
day  attended  New  Garden  Monthly  Meeting  ;  was  silent  in 
the  fore  part.  When  the  business  was  gone  through,  I  re- 
quested the  shutters  raised,  which  being  done  I  had  to  be 


1852.]  ANN     BRANSON.  107 

plain  and  honest  amongst  them,  beginning  with  these  words : 
"  What  shall  be  given  unto  thee,  thou  false  tongue  ?  Sharp 
arrows  of  the  mighty,  with  coals  of  juniper,  urging  the 
necessity  of  having  our  conversation  and  actions,  such  as 
the  Lord  approves ;  not  offending  Him  in  thought,  word, 
or  deed,  &c.  Felt  my  mind  relieved.  Next  morning  went 
to  Augusta.  Attended  the  Select  Preparative  Meeting, 
which  began  at  eight  o'clock,  and  the  Monthly  Meeting  at 
eleven,  in  both  of  which  I  was  silent,  except  a  few  words 
before  the  close  of  the  women's  meeting.  The  day  following 
was  at  Springfield  Monthly  Meeting.  I  was  silent  in  the 
fore  part,  but  before  the  close  of  the  women's  meeting,  had 
considerable  to  communicate,  and  felt  relieved  of  a  burden. 
Returned  to  Salem.  Staid  there  until  after  meeting  on 
First-day,  was  silent  and  felt  satisfied.  Second-day,  the 
26th,  went  to  Marlborough  and  attended  the  Select  Pre- 
parative Meeting  in  the  afternoon.  Lodged  at  Margaret 
Brantingham's.  Next  day  was  their  Monthly  Meeting.  I 
was  silent  in  the  fore  part.  When  the  Queries  were  before 
the  women's  meeting,  I  spoke  upon  plainness  of  speech,  de- 
portment and  apparel,  earnestly  desiring  that  mothers  and 
caretakers  might  be  induced  to  examine  how  far  they  were 
concerned  to  maintain  our  testimony  on  these  important 
points.  Also  in  regard  to  encouraging  the  reading  of  the 
Holy  Scriptures  in  their  families,  and  keeping  the  children 
from  the  corrupt  conversation  of  the  world,  and  from  per- 
nicious reading.  After  which  I  felt  in  some  degree  relieved, 
yet  my  mind  was  still  loaded  with  exercise  for  them,  which 
was  hard  to  be  uttered.  Thence  to  Goshen,  fifteen  miles, 
and  attended  their  week-day  meeting  on  the  28th.  Was 
silent  therein  and  felt  satisfied ;  in  the  afternoon  went  to 
Benjamin  Maulsbury's,  whose  wife  is  pretty  much  deprived 
of  the  use  of  her  speech,  limbs  and  faculties ;  which  makes 


108  JOURNAL     OF  [1852. 

it  trying  on  the  health  and  patience  of  those  who  have  the 
care  of  her.  I  have  often  craved  that  such  circumstances 
as  this  might  have  a  tendency  to  induce  us  to  make  use  of 
our  time  and  talents  to  the  glory  of  God,  whilst  we  are 
permitted  to  enjoy  them.  We  staid  but  a  little  time  at  this 
Friend's  house ;  but  coming  away  before  I  felt  easy  to  do 
so,  I  afterwards  suffered  considerable  in  my  mind.  The 
Master's  time  is  the  best  time  to  move  in,  however  outward 
circumstances  may  seem  to  urge  us  forward.  May  He  see 
meet  to  pardon  my  weakness,  and  make  me  more  watchful 
in  the  future. 

29th. — Attended  Springfield  Meeting  and  had  considera- 
ble to  say  on  the  subject  of  the  ministry,  and  came  away 
satisfied.  Next  morning  went  back  to  Salem.  Felt  unwell 
with  disease  of  the  stomach,  and  no  liberty  to  leave.  Was 
at  Meeting  there  on  First-day,  and  again  silent ;  which  is 
the  fourth  time  I  have  attended  this  meeting  since  coming 
amongst  them ;  not  daring  to  open  my  mouth  in  any  of 
them.  I  found  it  needful  to  watch  very  closely  the  pointings 
of  Truth,  and  to  move  only  when  and  where  it  pointed ; 
though  sometimes  entirely  contrary  to  my  expectations.  I 
am  often  blindfolded  and  led  about  by  that  invisible  power, 
that  knows  best  what  is  best  for  us.  A  little  opening  ap- 
peared after  meeting  on  First-day,  to  go  as  far  as  William 
Fawcett's  on  our  way  to  Middleton  ;  though  my  mind  was 
in  a  very  low  spot ;  and  I  was  not  very  well  in  body  ;  and 
I  began  to  think  whether  my  way  for  further  service  would 
not  entirely  close  up.  But  I  found  no  liberty  to  turn  my 
face  homeward.  Next  morning,  with  a  little  renewal  of 
faith,  started  for  Middleton  ;  having  Wm.  Fawcett  for  our 
pilot.  About  noon  reached  the  neighborhood,  and  put  up 
at  Sina  Heald's,  widow  of  Abner  Heald,  a  much  beloved 
minister  who  died  a  few  years  ago,  sound  in  the  faith  and 


1852.]  ANN    BRANSON.  109 

hope  of  the  gospel.  William  Heald,  the  father  of  Abner, 
was  then  at  his  daughter-in-law's.  He  is  near  ninety  years 
old  ;  and  is  smart  and  active  on  his  feet,  and  his  faculties 
clear.  Soon  after  we  arrived  he  asked  whether  we  wished 
a  meeting  appointed.  I  told  him  if  Friends  were  willing, 
I  wished  to  see  them,  and  others  of  the  neighborhood  in  the 
capacity  of  a  Meeting  for  Worship.  He  readily  assented, 
and  soon  started  to  give  notice  himself.  It  was  some  en- 
couragement to  my  tried  mind,  to  see  this  valued  Friend  and 
Elder  in  the  Church,  evince  such  an  interest  in  promoting 
that  concern  which  led  me  to  leave  my  home;  even  the  good 
of  others,  and  the  peace  of  my  own  mind.  This  meeting 
was  well  attended,  and  I  thought  it  a  good  meeting.  I  felt 
concerned  therein  to  arise  upon  my  feet  and  say — that  I  be- 
lieved there  was  a  spiritual  knocker,  and  a  spiritual  knock- 
ing ;  but  very  different  indeed  in  its  nature,  from  that  self- 
styled  spiritual  knocking  in  these  days ;  of  which  the  devil 
and  his  agents  were  the  authors.  Unto  Christ  Jesus,  who 
is  knocking  at  the  door  of  the  heart — unto  Him  who  is  the 
"  minister  of  the  sanctuary,  which  God  hath  pitched,  and 
not  man,"  I  directed  the  attention  of  the  people ;  and  to  turn 
away  from,  "  Lo  here  is  Christ,  and  lo  He  is  there,"  &c.  I 
afterwards  felt  easy  and  quiet. 

Next  day  went  to  Elk  Run.  It  was  a  very  small  meet- 
ing, and,  I  thought,  a  lifeless  one.  We  sat  a  good  while  in 
silence ;  but  before  the  close,  I  told  them,  that  although  I 
had  seen  no  one  asleep,  except  a  little  child,  I  thought  it 
right  to  admonish  them,  to  "  present  their  bodies  a  living 
sacrifice,"  holy  and  acceptable  unto  God,  which  is  our  reason- 
able service."  That  a  religious  meeting  was  not  the  place 
to  sleep ;  not  even  for  children.  That  even  such,  though 
quite  young,  should  be  better  instructed.  I  had  considera- 
ble to  say,  and  felt  relieved  when  the  meeting  ended.  Rode 


110  JOURNAL    OF  [1852. 

to  Carmel  that  evening.  On  our  way  we  passed  a  road,  at 
the  sight  of  which  I  felt  that  I  must  enquire  to  whose  house 
it  led.  Our  pilot  answered,  to  the  house  of  a  Friend  whose 
wife  has  long  been  a  cripple ;  adding,  the  Friend  desires 
you  would  come  and  see  them.  I  noted  this  down  in  my 
mind,  thinking  we  would  call  on  our  way  back  to  Salem. 
Lodged  that  night  at  N.  Armstrong's,  and  next  day  attended 
Carmel  Meeting.  And  although  I  had  considerable  to  com- 
municate, I  did  not  feel  relieved;  and  could  hardly  tell  why. 
Dined  at  Armstrong's,  and  felt  weighed  down  with  exercise. 
It  rained  hard  and  the  clouds  were  thick ;  but  expecting  to 
leave  Carmel  that  afternoon,  and  return  to  Salem,  I  felt 
anxious  to  be  going.  Under  these  feelings  I  requested  the 
horses  got  ready  that  we  might  be  off;  but  as  we  left  the 
Friend's  house  and  turned  towards  Salem,  I  felt  a  weight  of 
exercise  which  I  cannot  describe.  I  thought  if  the  sheriff 
had  come  and  taken  me  captive,  I  should  not  have  felt  more 
like  a  prisoner ;  whilst  this  language  ran  forcibly  through 
my  mind — "Thou  art  still  a  prisoner."  Under  these  feel- 
ings we  rode  five  miles  to  T.  Ws,  a  Hicksite  preacher,  whose 
wife  is  an  elder  amongst  Friends.  Next  morning  I  told  my 
companions,  I  must  go  back  to  Carmel.  They  were  ready 
and  willing  to  do  so.  I  requested  a  private  opportunity 
with  T.  W.  and  wife.  I  told  him,  that  I  believed  the  Lord 
required  him  to  be  still,  to  know  what  it  was  to  be  brought 
into  true  silence  before  Him  ;  and  if  this  was  his  experience 
he  would  see  his  way  out  from  amongst  the  Hicksites.  That 
I  had  no  unity  with  their  principles,  nor  gospel  fellowship 
with  those  who  hold  them.  I  said  much  more  to  the  old 
man  in  the  presence  of  his  wife,  which  he  seemed  to  take 
kindly ;  his  wife  uniting  with  what  I  said — that  a  state  of 
stillness  was  what  he  was  called  to.  After  this  I  requested 


1852.]  ANN    BRANSON.  Ill 

the  children  called  in,  and  had  an  opportunity  with  them 
to  the  relief  of  ray  mind. 

On  our  way  to  Carmel  we  called  on  a  son  of  the  aforesaid 
Hicksite,  yet  a  member  amongst  Friends.  He  had  been 
lately  married.  We  had  a  religious  opportunity  with  him 
and  his  wife.  I  exhorted  them  to  "seek  first  the  Kingdom 
of  Heaven,  and  its  righteousness,  and  all  things  necessary 
would  be  added."  I  reminded  them  of  the  danger  of  setting 
their  affections  on  things  below,  that  the  desire  after  worldly 
treasure  generally  and  gradually  increased  in  the  mind,  as 
riches  increased.  That  the  natural  mind  of  man  could  not 
be  satisfied  with  wealth.  I  reminded  them  of  the  humble 
situation  that  our  blessed  Saviour  made  in  his  appearance 
in  the  world — his  birthplace  a  stable — wrapped  in  swaddling 
clothes,  and  laid  in  a  manger.  He  by  whom  all  things  were 
created  that  are  in  heaven  and  in  the  earth,  condescended 
thus  to  humble  himself;  setting  us  a  pattern  of  meekness 
and  humility,  which  we  ought  to  consider  when  we  are  de- 
siring great  things  and  fine  appearances  for  ourselves.  I 
had  much  more  to  communicate  to  these  young  persons,  to 
the  relief  of  my  mind.  Went  to  William  Leech's.  After 
dinner  had  a  religious  opportunity  with  the  family,  and  then 
rode  to  Carmel. 

Same  afternoon  went  to  see  an  aged  Friend,  eighty-six 
years  old,  who  had  been  confined  at  home  about  six  years ; 
suffering  much  bodily  pain.  She  seemed  overjoyed  to  see 
us ;  often  exclaiming,  "  Oh,  I  am  so  glad  to  see  you ;  I  am 
so  glad  to  see  the  faces  of  my  friends.  I  am  a  poor,  unwor- 
thy creature,  but  have  much  to  be  thankful  for."  On  look- 
ing around  her  room,  and  contrasting  her  humble  cottage 
with  the  dwellings  of  those  who  have  all  the  comforts  and 
conveniences  of  life  when  thus  afflicted ;  I  was  struck  with 
her  expressions  of  gratitude,  and  thankfulness  for  the  bles- 


112  JOURNAL    OF  [1852. 

sings  she  enjoyed.  We  stayed  an  hour  or  two  with  this  aged 
Friend,  had  a  religious  opportunity  with  the  family,  consist- 
ing of  herself,  her  son  and  his  wife,  and  several  children.  I 
felt  thankful  for  being  permitted  to  make  this  visit. 

Next  day  visited  two  aged  Friends,  who  were  mostly  con- 
fined at  home  with  bodily  infirmity.  There  I  relieved  my 
mind  in  a  religious  opportunity,  and  came  away  satisfied. 
But  for  not  giving  up  to  pay  a  visit  to  his  sons,  who  lived 
near  by,  I  felt  remorse ;  and  have  since  regretted  this  omis- 
sion. Went  to  Martha  Ashton's  to  dine.  Had  a  religious 
opportunity  with  herself,  son  and  daughter,  to  the  relief  of 
my  mind.  I  then  mentioned  to  my  companions  a  concern 
which  had  rested  with  me  to  appoint  a  meeting  at  Carmel, 
at  four  o'clock  to-morrow  afternoon  ;  which  with  the  consent 
of  the  elders,  was  done.  The  meeting  gathered  at  the  time 
appointed  and  was  well  attended.  I  felt  it  right  to  plead 
with  the  infidel  to  forsake  his  proud  and  vain  course,  and 
turn  unto  the  Lord  whilst  He  was  pleased  to  plead  with  him 
in  judgment,  mingled  with  mercy.  I  had  to  warn  them 
against  indulging  in  a  spirit  of  unbelief;  that  an  awful  doom 
awaited  those  who  gave  up  to  disbelieve  in,  and  continued 
to  disbelieve  in,  the  Saviour  of  the  world ;  and  in  the  exist- 
ence of  a  Supreme  Being.  I  admonished  the  youth  to  flee 
from  the  reasonings  of  the  sceptic  as  they  would  from  the 
bite  of  a  viper.  To  shun  the  company  of  such  as  they  would 
shun  a  venomous  beast.  The  meeting  ended  in  supplication. 
After  this  meeting,  in  which  I  was  largely  and  weightily 
engaged  in  the  service  appointed  me,  I  felt  ready  to  leave 
Carmel.  with  a  peaceful  mind.  Truly  thankful  was  I  for 
having  been  enabled  to  wait  the  Master's  time  for  my  de- 
parture. 

Rode  to  Elk  Run  that  afternoon,  and  Lodged  at  the 
Friend's  house  whose  wife  was  a  cripple,  and  where  I  had 


1852.]  ANN    BRANSON.  113 

proposed  stopping  on  our  return  to  Salem.  We  had  a  re- 
ligious opportunity  in  the  family  (where  were  several  young 
people),  much  to  the  relief  of  my  mind.  Returned  to  Salem 
the  9th  of  the  Eighth  Month.  Went  to  A.  H.'s,  and  had  a 
religious  opportunity  in  his  family ;  relieving  my  mind  to- 
wards his  children,  and  some  of  their  relatives  who  were 
present.  I  reminded  them  of  the  uncertainty  of  time,  and 
the  necessity  of  spending  it  rightly.  I  told  the  young  peo- 
ple of  my  father's  expressions  concerning  himself — "  When 
a  lad,  I  was  left  without  father  or  mother,  or  any  one  to 
counsel  me ;  but  as  I  looked  to  the  Lord  He  kept  me  out  of 
bad  company,  and  preserved  me  from  evil."  I  did  not  know 
until  afterwards,  that  some  of  the  children  had  been  dis- 
owned for  attending  balls,  dancing-parties,  &c.  This  was  a 
very  unexpected  opportunity  to  me ;  but  I  felt  that  I  dare 
not  go  away  without  trying  to  relieve  my  mind  amongst 
them.  Stayed  in  town  at  our  old  home,  M.  J.  F. ;  kept 
close  at  home  next  day;  and  on  the  llth  again  attended 
Salem  Meeting.  I  had  to  declare  the  truth  amongst  them 
that  day ;  telling  them  that  I  felt  bound,  poor  and  unworthy 
as  I  was,  to  speak  of  the  nature  and  tendency  of  gospel  min- 
istry. That  I  esteemed  such  a  ministry  a  blessing  to  the 
Church ;  yet  where  any  spoke  from  past  experience,  with- 
out the  fresh  anointing  of  the  holy  Spirit — without  the  im- 
mediate putting  forth  of  the  Shepherd  of  the  sheep — such  a 
ministry,  although  esteemed  eloquent,  and  adorned  with 
gifts,  belonging  to  the  natural  parts — theoretical,  and  head 
knowledge — could  not  profit  the  people,  and  was  nothing 
better  than  sounding  brass  or  a  tinkling  cymbal — the  bell 
without  the  pomegranate. 

I  exhorted  them  to  get  down  deeper  in  their  spirits ;  to 
wait  upon  the  Lord,  who  is  the  fountain  of  life,  and  never- 
failing  source  of  help  to  the  rightly  exercised.  To  such  as 


114  JOURNAL    OF  [1852. 

these,  a  ministry,  however  calculated  to  please  the  itching 
ear  of  man,  yet  lacking  the  demonstration  of  the  spirit  and 
power,  was  a  great  burden.  When  this  meeting  ended  I  felt 
calm  and  peaceful.  Oh,  the  superficial  daubing  which  it 
seems  to  me  is  going  on.  My  heart  feels  sometimes  to  sicken 
under  a  consideration  of  these  things. 

In  the  afternoon  visited  Salem  school,  and  had  a  religious 
opportunity  with  the  teacher  and  scholars.  Next  day  visited 
the  family  of  an  individual  who  had  died  suddenly  from 
home,  with  the  cholera,  whilst  attending  a  political  meeting. 
Though  I  went  in  fear  and  trembling  (they  not  being  mem- 
bers of  our  Society),  I  felt  greatly  satisfied  in  having  given 
up  to  this  intimation  of  duty.  This  family,  which  consisted 
of  the  widow  and  several  children  grown  up,  were  much  con- 
trited  and  humbled  on  this  occasion  ;  and  I  trust  it  will  be 
some  inducement  to  them  to  consider  the  uncertainty  of  time, 
and  to  prepare  for  a  future  state. 

Next  day,  attended  the  Select  Quarterly  Meeting  at  Salem, 
in  which  I  was  silent.  The  day  following,  the  Quarterly 
Meeting — silent  also  in  that,  except  a  few  words  in  the  last 
meeting.  Next  day  being  First-day  the  15th  of  the  month, 
again  attended  Salem  Meeting.  Nathan  Hoag  and  Rebecca 
Updegraff  were  there,  and  had  much  to  communicate.  I 
spoke  a  little,  near  the  close  of  the  meeting,  but  my  mind 
was  so  depressed  after  meeting  that  I  could  not  forbear  re- 
tiring to  my  room,  without  partaking  of  any  nourishment, 
and  tried  for  a  resting  place  from  the  commotions  that  seem- 
ed to  come  in  like  a  flood.  I  remembered  the  language  of 
the  Psalmist — "The  Lord  sitteth  upon  the  flood,  yea,  the 
Lord  sitteth  King  forever."  Towards  evening,  visited  a 
brother  of  the  man  who  died  with  cholera,  before  mentioned. 
Had  an  opportunity  of  relieving  my  mind  in  his  family. 


1852.]  ANN     BRANSON.  115 

Then  went  to  Dr.  A.  C.'s,  and  had  an  opportunity  with  him 
and  his  wife,  to  the  relief  of  my  mind. 

Next  day,  attended  Springfield  Select  Quarterly  Meeting. 
After  much  communication  from  divers  individuals,  and  the 
business  gone  through,  I  felt  it  right  to  tell  them,  that  I  had 
been  reminded  of  the  word  of  the  Lord,  through  the  mouth 
of  his  prophet — "  Take  away  from  me  the  noise  of  thy  songs ; 
for  I  will  not  hear  the  melody  of  thy  viols.  But  let  judg- 
ment run  down  as  waters,  and  righteousness  as  a  mighty 
stream."  I  told  them  that  I  felt  constrained  to  declare  in  their 
hearing  in  the  love  of  the  gospel,  that  breathed  for  the  sal- 
vation of  every  soul  present ;  that  I  believed  that  the  de- 
ceivableness  of  unrighteousness  was  in  the  camp;  that  there 
was  a  disposition  to  cry  peace,  peace,  when  there  is  no  peace. 
That  the  Lord  required  judgment  laid  to  the  line,  and  right- 
eousness to  the  plumbline  in  the  hearts  of  those  who  were 
crying  out  in  his  name,  or  concerning  his  works,  and  good- 
ness, &c.  I  felt  peaceful  and  easy  after  this  meeting ;  yet 
under  exercise  that  I  might  be  kept  in  my  proper  place. 

Next  day,  at  the  Quarterly  Meeting,  I  was  silent.  After 
meeting  returned  to  Salem,  and  that  evening  visited  two 
families.  Next  day  being  Salem  Week-day  Meeting,  I  felt 
no  liberty  to  leave  before,  though  I  had  been  looking  a  little 
towards  it,  but  felt  that  I  must  not  be  a  Jonah  fleeing  before 
the  right  time.  Paid  two  family  visits  and  then  went  to 
meeting,  and  sat  under  great  exercise,  which  caused  some  of 
my  limbs  to  tremble.  It  being  their  Preparative,  I  did  not 
feel  it  ray  place  to  say  anything  in  the  public  meeting,  but 
requested  when  the  business  was  gone  through,  that  the  shut- 
ters might  be  raised,  which  was  united  with  by  men  and 
women.  Then,  in  the  fear  of  the  Lord,  and,  I  trust,  in  the 
power  and  strength  which  He  gives,  I  felt  at  liberty  to  un- 
burden my  mind  amongst  them — telling  them  that  I  was 


116  JOURNAL  or  [1852. 

not  aware  of  having  omitted  any  right  opening  to  relieve 
my  mind  ;  that  my  spirit  had  been  held  captive  amongst 
them  as  well  as  my  body,  and  I  had  been  baptized  into  a 
very  low  place  for  the  living,  as  well  as  the  dead.  That  I 
believed  the  spirit  of  Balaam  was  amongst  them  ;  that  spirit 
which  George  Fox  said  is  the  most  deceiving.  That  spirit 
that  could  speak  from  past  experience  of  God  and  of  Christ, 
yet  nevertheless,  had  forsaken  the  right  path  and  gone  out 
into  gainsaying.  That  spirit  was  amongst  them  that  could 
exclaim,  "How  goodly  are  thy  tents,  oh  Jacob,  and  thy 
tabernacles,  oh  Israel ;  let  me  die  the  death  of  the  righteous, 
and  let  my  last  end  be  like  his ;  "  whilst,  at  the  same  time, 
ascending  the  altars  of  Balak  and  following  after  the  wages 
of  unrighteousness.  I  told  them  that  I  believed  the  Lord 
would  in  his  own  time  arise  and  deliver  his  people,  and  dis- 
cover the  deceit  amongst  us ;  that  the  great  hail-stones  would 
fall  and  sweep  away  the  refuge  of  lies,  and  the  Balaam-like 
spirits  would  be  found  slain  in  the  enemy's  camp.  That  the 
spirit  of  Saul  and  of  Goliah  was  also  amongst  them ;  that 
which  hunted  the  life  of  the  true  Israelitish  seed.  Also  that 
which  defied  the  Israel  of  God.  Oh,  it  was  a  fearful  meet- 
ing ;  but  I  had  to  tell  them  with  trembling,  and  in  the  fear, 
dread  and  power  of  the  Lord,  that  in  his  own  time  He  would 
prepare  the  sling  and  the  stone,  and  rescue  his  chosen  from 
the  hunters  and  defiers  of  Israel.  I  also  exhorted  those  who 
were  alive  to  get  down  deeper  in  their  spirits,  that  they 
might  be  prepared  to  labor  availingly  in  the  vineyard  of 
the  Lord.  How  good  it  is  to  wait  all  the  Lord's  appointed 
time  for  ability  to  do  his  work ;  and  labor  after  resignation 
until  He  gives  the  word  of  command  to  step  forward  in  his 
service.  After  meeting  paid  another  family  visit  and  then 
set  out  for  home,  taking  our  Quarterly  Meeting  in  the  way. 
Reached  home  after  Quarterly  Meeting,  but  felt  no  liberty 


1853.]  ANN     BRANSON.  117 

to  return  my  Minute  at  our  Monthly  Meeting  the  week  fol- 
lowing. 

Twelfth  Month  14th. — My  soul  is  exceedingly  sorrowful. 
Oh,  thou  preserver  of  men,  thou  hast  been  with  me,  in  and 
through  many  straits.  Once  more  I  ask  thy  all-protecting 
guardian  care;  whilst  my  spirit  is  exceedingly  tried  and 
tempted.  Be  pleased,  I  humbly  pray  thee,  to  look  down 
with  an  eye  of  compassion  upon  one  who  feels  that  there  is 
none  in  heaven,  or  in  earth,  to  look  unto  for  help  and 
strength,  but  thee;  in  this  hour  when  my  patience  is  put  to 
such  a  close  trial.  Oh,  thou  who  knowest  how  far  to  try  me, 
let  me  not  faint,  or  give  out,  or  conclude  as  Saul  did,  that 
the  prophet  tarried  too  long ;  and  so  offer  an  offering  before 
the  right  time.  Lord,  thou  knowest  for  what  thou  permit- 
test  me  to  experience  the  cloud  to  rest  upon  the  tabernacle ; 
whilst  it  seems  to  others,  that  I  am  deferring  of  my  own 
accord  the  work  appointed  me.  Grant  ability,  oh  God,  to 
wait  all  the  days  of  my  appointed  time,  until  my  change 
come ;  until  the  shadows  flee  away,  and  there  is  daylight  to 
walk  in,  and  to  work  in. 

Second  Mouth  4th,  1853. — I  think  of  leaving  home  to- 
morrow to  finish  (as  way  opens)  a  religious  visit  for  which 
I  obtained  the  concurrence  of  our  Monthly  Meeting  nearly 
eight  months  ago ;  and  though  it  remains  partly  unaccom- 
plished, I  know  of  no  other  cause,  than  that  the  way  has 
appeared  closed  up,  and  no  opening  in  the  truth,  either  to 
move  forward,  or  to  return  my  Minute  to  the  Monthly  Meet- 
ing. A  strange  situation  to  be  in  some  may  think ;  for  any 
one  professing  to  be  a  minister  of  the  gospel.  But  shall  any 
one  undertake  to  move  in  such  an  important  work,  without 
that  degree  of  light  and  strength  requisite  to  bring  peace  of 
mind  ?  None  knows  how  it  has  been  with  me  for  the  past 
six  months,  save  the  Searcher  of  hearts.  No  tongue  can  tell 


118  JOURNAL   OF  [1853. 

or  pen  describe  the  extent  of  the  sorrow  and  distress  which 
my  mind  at  times  has  undergone;  so  that  I  have  marvelled 
how  the  body  could  sustain  the  weight  of  exercise  endured. 

.What  shall  I  say  of  the  works  of  the  Lord,  or  how  shall 
I  declare  the  mighty  power  of  God.  I  will  even  "  lay  my 
hand  upon  my  mouth,  for  his  greatness  is  unsearchable,  and 
his  ways  past  finding  out."  "  I  fainted  in  my  sighing  and 
found  no  rest,"  only  as  thou  hast  been  pleased  to  give  it  me. 
The  world  had  no  consolation  for  me,  and  as  for  things  de- 
lightful, they  fled  as  though  they  had  never  been  ;  but  now, 
He  lifteth  me  up  a  little  and  causeth  me  to  hope  in  his 
mercy.  My  soul  hath  this  testimony — that  there  are  those 
in  these  days,  who  appear  to  be  full  fed,  and  in  want  of 
nothing,  who  run  when  they  please,  and  speak  what  they 
please,  who  shall  experience  their  staff  of  bread  broken,  and 
they  shall  want  bread  and  water,  and  be  astonished  one  with 
another,  and  consume  away  if  they  repent  not  of  their  in- 
iquities. 

"Do  thy  duty  independent  of  the  whole  world,"  said  a 
dying  man  to  me  the  other  day  as  he  bid  me  affectionately 
farewell,  repeating  it  twice — "  Do  thy  duty  independent  of 
the  whole  world."  What  an  honest  hour  is  the  hour  of 
death.  This  man,  as  he  expressed  himself,  had  waded  in 
gold,  yet  he  found,  as  he  said,  that  it  is  not  worth  living  for; 
exhorting  his  children  to  be  good.  Very  plainly  had  I  dealt 
with  this  man,  concerning  his  spiritual  condition  in  the  days 
of  his  health,  when  sickness  and  disease  were  far  from  him  ; 
but  now  he  remembered  that  nothing  but  honesty  would  do, 
and  a  faithful  performance  of  our  religious  duties.  Oh,  may 
I  never  fear  the  face  of  man,  when  the  Lord  bids  me  speak, 
though  he  may  soar  above  the  true  witness  for  God  in  the 
secret  of  his  heart ;  yet  the  time  will  come  when  he  will  need 
pure  and  undefiled  religion.  Great  had  been  my  exercise 


1853.]  ANN     BRANSON.  119 

for  this  individual  in  his  sickness,  as  well  as  in  the  days  of 
his  health ;  and  ardently  did  my  spirit  crave  that  he  might 
be  permitted  at  the  eleventh  hour  to  enter  into  the  vineyard 
and  labor  for  the  penny. 

5th. — Left  home  as  contemplated ;  rode  seventeen  miles 
to  a  neighborhood  where  no  Friends  reside;  appointed  a 
Meeting  for  Worship  to  be  held  the  next  day,  at  three 
o'clock.  The  day  was  cold  and  stormy,  and  the  roads  diffi- 
cult to  travel,  yet  the  meeting  was  well  attended,  and  I  felt 
thankful  that  I  was  there  amongst  a  company  of  strangers, 
whose  faces  I  may  never  again  see ;  yet,  for  the  welfare  of 
their  souls,  my  spirit  hath  long  felt  deeply  interested,  and 
now  I  feel  peaceful  and  easy  in  regard  to  the  dedication  of 
my  will  to  that  of  my  Divine  Master.  After  this  meeting 
(which  ended  to  satisfaction)  rode  to  Jefferson,  five  miles ; 
but  did  not  reach  our  lodgings  until  eight  o'clock  at  night. 
Here  we  met  with  a  Methodist  minister,  with  whom  we  had 
some  conversation  on  doctrinal  subjects,  and  I  believe  it  was 
not  an  unprofitable  interview ;  both  he  and  the  innkeeper 
were  very  friendly  disposed,  and  perhaps  some  things  men- 
tioned may  be  remembered  to  profit  in  days  to  come.  From 
Jefferson  to  Harlem  Springs,  twelve  miles.  After  dinner 
had  an  opportunity  with  the  innkeeper  and  wife,  whom  I 
considered  in  a  very  responsible  situation.  It  being  a  place 
of  great  resort  in  summer  for  all  classes  of  people,  on  ac- 
count of  the  (supposed)  virtue  of  the  water  for  the  cure  of 
diseases,  bathing,  &c.  I  had  to  deal  very  plainly  with  them, 
exhorting  them  to  keep  an  orderly  house,  free  from  music, 
dancing,  card-playing,  &c.  I  warned  them  of  the  conse- 
quences resulting  from  a  life  spent  in  pride,  vanity,  and  ir- 
religion.  I  have  since  felt  easy  in  my  mind  in  regard  to 
them,  and  hope  I  shall  be  clear  of  their  blood.  Rode  that 
afternoon  to  Mechanicstown,  over  as  bad  roads  as  I  ever 


120  JOURNAL     OF  [1853. 

travelled.  When  I  think  of  the  cup  of  suffering  which  has 
been  meted  out  to  me,  and  the  strokes  it  has  taken  to  make 
me  willing,  and  to  prepare  me  to  set  out  on  this  little  jour- 
ney, retracing  my  former  steps ;  all  that  can  arise  in  regard 
to  difficult  roads,  weather,  &c.,  seem  nothing  in  my  view, 
compared  to  that  peace  which  is  necessary  for  us  to  know 
ere  we  can  receive  an  immortal  crown  of  glory. 

This  morning,  the  8th,  had  a  religious  opportunity  with 
the  family  where  we  lodged,  all  of  whom  were  strangers  to 
us.  What  was  offered  appeared  to  be  well  received.  This 
day  reached  the  settlement  of  Friends.  9th,  to-day,  attend- 
ed the  Select  Preparative  Meeting  at  Middleton.  In  the 
evening  went  to  Samuel  Dixon's,  where  we  unexpectedly 
met  with  our  friend  J.  E.  and  companion.  This  evening, 
during  an  interval  of  silent,  reverent  waiting  on  the  Lord 
in  this  family,  my  mind  was  raised  above  all  gloom  and  dis- 
couragement, and  a  song  of  praise  filled  my  heart,  so  that 
no  sorrow  was  thereunto  added.  I  said  it  is  enough,  Lord, 
thou  hast  given  me  an  evidence  of  thy  favor  and  loving 
kindness  of  which  I  am  not  worthy. 

10th. — This  day  was  Middleton  Monthly  Meeting.  After 
the  business  was  gone  through,  I  requested  the  shutters  low- 
ered, and  had  a  relieving  opportunity  with  men  and  women 
Friends.  I  told  them  that  I  believed  the  Lord  had  not  cast 
off  his  people ;  that  He  had  preserved  a  remnant  to  speak 
well  of  his  excellent  name ;  that  if  we  as  a  people  deserted 
our  posts,  others  would  be  called  in  from  the  highways  and 
hedges,  to  support  our  principles  and  testimonies,  and  our 
vineyards,  and  olive-yards,  would  be  taken  from  us  and  given 
to  our  neighbors  who  are  better  than  we.  This  and  much 
more  I  had  to  tell  them.  Dined  at  J.  Heald's ;  had  an  un- 
expected opportunity  with  him  and  his  family  in  the  way  of 
caution,  counsel  and  encouragement ;  hope  it  will  not  prove 


1853.]  ANN    BRANSON.  121 

to  their  disadvantage.  Lodged  at  Sina  Heald's,  widow  of 
Abner  Heald,  who  died  a  few  years  ago,  leaving  a  noble 
testimony  behind  him  for  the  Truth,  and  against  Gurney- 
ism,  &c. 

llth. — Attended  Salem  Select  Quarterly  Meeting.  After 
returning  from  it  my  mind  became  deeply  affected,  and  I 
could  not  refrain  from  weeping.  I  went  alone  and  gave 
vent  to  my  tears ;  I  thought  of  the  strokes  it  had  taken  to 
make  me  willing  to  return  to  Salem,  and  the  turnings,  and 
the  overturnings  I  had  endured  since  I  was  there.  I  re- 
membered the  wormwood  and  the  gall,  and  my  heart  was 
humbled  within  me.  I  felt  willing  to  be  reputed  anything 
or  nothing,  so  that  I  might  be  found  in  my  place.  I  de- 
sired not  to  be  in  company,  but  endeavored  as  much  as  pos- 
sible to  conceal  my  feelings.  Next  day  attended  the  Quar- 
terly Meeting;  in  the  forepart  of  which  I  was  silent.  After 
the  shutters  were  closed  and  J.  E's  Minute  was  read,  I  in- 
formed women  Friends  that  I  was  there  with  the  same  Min- 
ute that  I  obtained  in  the  Eighth  Month  last;  that  on  re- 
turning home,  as  I  apprehended,  at  the  right  time ;  month 
after  month  had  passed  away,  and  still  I  did  not  feel  fully 
released  from  the  service,  and  yet  had  felt  no  liberty  to  re- 
turn amongst  them  until  the  present  time.  That  it  could 
not  be  to  our  peace,  or  the  advantage  of  others,  to  move  in 
our  own  will  and  time;  though  we  might  think  it  long  to 
be  thus  held  as  it  were  in  bonds.  Several  Friends  expressed 
satisfaction  with  the  information,  and  unity  with  my  attend- 
ance. 

After  the  business  of  the  meeting  was  finished,  I  requested 
the  shutters  opened,  that  I  might  see  men  and  women  Friends 
together,  which  was  fully  united  with  by  men  and  women. 
My  mouth  was  opened  to  commemorate  the  goodness  of  the 
Lord  ;  that  He  is  able  and  willing  to  sustain  those  who  put 


122  JOURNAL    OF  [1853. 

their  trust  in  Him,  even  under  the  weight  of  mountains; 
reviving  the  language  of  the  prophet — "  He  that  compre- 
hendeth  the  dust  of  the  earth  in  a  measure,  and  weigheth 
the  mountains  in  scales,  and  the  hills  in  a  balance;"  He 
can  sustain  under  every  trial  that  can  befall  us.  I  had  to 
allude  to  the  prophet  Ezekiel,  who  was  commanded  to  lie 
upon  his  left  side,  and  lay  the  iniquity  of  the  house  of  Israel 
upon  it,  and  then  upon  his  right  side,  and  bear  the  iniquity 
of  the  house  of  Judah.  He  was  not  to  turn  from  one  side 
to  the  other  to  ease  himself,  until  the  days  of  the  siege  were 
fulfilled.  His  bread  was  nauseous  and  to  be  eaten  by  weight, 
and  with  care  from  time  to  time  was  he  to  eat  it ;  he  was  to 
be  a  sign  to  the  people.  So  the  Lord  had  some  in  these  days 
who  were  to  be  a  sign  to  others ;  they  could  not  run  at  their 
own  will  or  pleasure. 

The  Lord  had  put  bands  upon  them,  and  they  knew  that 
He  is  Almighty,  and  can  in  his  own  time  release  them ;  that 
man  as  he  is  obedient  to  the  teachings  of  the  holy  Spirit, 
that  leads  out  of  all  error  into  all  truth,  will  be  raised  above 
all  earthly-mindedness,  become  heavenly-minded,  having  his 
affections  weaned  from  the  world  and  the  things  of  the  world. 
I  had  to  tell  them  that  I  believed,  there  were  those  amongst 
them  who  were  not  willing  to  be  counted  as  earthly-minded 
as  they  really  were.  Who,  instead  of  saying  to  their  chil- 
dren and  those  around  them,  follow  us  as  we  follow  Christ, 
by  our  every-day  walk  and  conversation,  were  saying  prac- 
tically, follow  us  as  we  follow  the  world,  its  spirit,  its  man- 
ners, its  maxims,  and  its  customs  ;  that  the  day  is  hastening, 
when  we  shall  be  called  to  an  account,  and  every  false  cov- 
ering rent  off.  Oh,  the  importance  of  being  ready  for  such 
an  hour ;  "  when  the  dust  shall  return  to  dust,  and  the  spirit 
shall  return  unto  God  who  gave  it,  to  receive  a  reward  ac- 
cording to  the  deeds  done  in  the  body."  I  felt  peaceful  and 


1853.]  ANN    BRANSON.  123 

easy  when  the  meeting  ended.  Before  the  close,  Joseph 
Edgerton  said,  "This  is  a  day  which  the  Lord  hath  made, 
we  will  rejoice  and  be  glad  in  his  salvation." 

Next  day  united  with  J.  E.  in  appointing  a  meeting  for 
the  youth  at  Salem ;  but  the  meeting  was  not  so  much  to 
my  satisfaction  as  I  could  have  desired,  partly,  I  believe,  on 
account  of  my  own  disobedience,  in  not  strictly  attending  to 
the  pointings  of  the  Master;  both  before  going  into  meeting, 
and  afterwards.  Those  who  preach  to  others  must  know 
judgment  laid  to  the  line  in  themselves,  and  righteousness 
to  the  plumb-line,  or  else  their  preaching  will  not  profit 
their  hearers,  nor  bring  peace  to  themselves.  May  I  learn 
obedience  by  the  things  that  I  suffer.  The  dear  Master 
gives  an  unflattering  witness  in  our  hearts  which  sticks 
closer  than  a  brother,  and  if  we  do  not  stifle  its  convictions, 
we  will  be  led  plainly  to  see  our  misses,  and  how  to  mend 
them,  as  well  as  to  feel  the  answer  of  well  done,  when  we 
have  faithfully  followed  this  heavenly  monitor. 

10th. — Proceeded  to  Springfield  Select  Quarterly  Meet- 
ing; after  which  we  dined  at  J.  F's.  Before  leaving  there 
J.  E.  had  some  encouraging  language  to  these  young  Friends, 
and  I  felt  myself  called  upon  to  repeat  the  words  of  the 
Apostle,  and  apply  it  to  our  Society  in  the  present  day — 
"  The  Lord  hath  not  cast  off  his  people  whom  He  foreknew ; " 
with  some  encouragement  to  those  who  were  rightly  exer- 
cised, not  to  give  out  though  trials  may  abound.  Then  went 
to  J.  Lynch's,  where  I  felt  my  mind  drawn  to  caution  and 
encourage  them,  not  to  give  out  in  the  day  of  trial ;  to  re- 
member Lot's  wife,  who  was  turned  into  a  pillar  of  salt 
through  unfaithfulness;  a  warning  to  others  instead  of  a 
way-mark. 

Thence  to  Simeon  Fawcett's  in  the  evening.  His  wife  pro- 
posed that  a  chapter  be  read  in  the  Bible,  with  which  we 


124  JOURNAL    OF  [1853. 

united,  and  it  proved  an  opportunity  for  me  to  cast  off  a 
burden  that  rested  with  me  in  regard  to  this  family.  I  felt 
peaceful  and  easy  afterwards,  blessed  be  the  name. of  Israel's 
Shepherd,  for  when  He  opens  none  can  shut,  and  when  He 
shuts  none  can  open. 

Next  day,  attended  Springfield  Quarterly  Meeting,  where 
I  relieved  my  mind,  particularly  in  the  women's  meeting, 
greatly  tending  to  my  own  peace;  and  I  hope  some  encour- 
agement to  the  rightly  exercised  amongst  them.  Dined  at 
J.  H.  Stanley's,  where  we  had  an  opportunity  with  his  family 
and  some  other  Friends,  to  the  relief  of  my  mind.  I  told 
them  I  believed  the  Lord  would  sift  us  until  we  were  a  peo- 
ple more  to  his  praise ;  that  all  who  would  live  godly  in 
Christ  Jesus,  must  be  willing  to  suffer;  that  the  integrity  of 
Job's  heart  kept  his  head  above  the  waves  of  affliction ;  that 
everything  seemed  to  combine  to  render  him  uncomfortable, 
and  cast  him  down ;  yet  he  maintained  his  allegiance  firm 
unto  Him  who  is  the  Lord  of  lords,  and  King  of  kings;  so 
may  we  be  able,  in  and  through  all  trials  and  besetments, 
as  we  keep  the  eye  single  to  the  Master,  to  triumph  over  all 
opposition,  and  become  "  more  than  conquerors  through  Him 
who  loved  us.''  Went  to  Goshen,  and  lodged  at  Robert 
Ellyson's. 

Next  day,  in  company  with  J.  E.  and  companion,  rode 
forty  miles  to  Job  Warren's ;  where  J.  E.  had  an  appointed 
meeting  to  middling  good  satisfaction.  They  being  the  only 
family  of  Friends  in  that  neighborhood,  the  meeting  was 
held  there. 

13th. — Left  Job  Warren's  and  rode  twenty  miles  to  Ra- 
venna, where  Joseph  Edgerton  felt  his  mind  drawn  to  ap- 
point a  meeting,  to  be  held  at  seven  o'clock  that  evening. 
The  attendance  was  small  in  consequence  of  several  other 
meetings  having  been  previously  appointed ;  yet  it  proved 


1853.]  ANN    BRANSON.  125 

a  time  of  favor.  One  individual,  a  stranger  to  us,  expressed 
his  near  unity  with  what  he  had  heard  said.  His  views  in 
regard  to  the  necessity  of  water  baptism,  and  some  other 
doctrinal  subjects,  had  recently  undergone  a  change.  He 
hoped  to  be  able  to  live  so  as  to  be  united  to  the  true  dis- 
ciples of  Christ,  or  words  to  this  import.  We  left  this  per- 
son in  a  very  tender  frame  of  mind,  and  parted  under  solemn 
feelings. 

Next  morning  we  parted  with  J.  E.,  they  going  towards 
Salem,  and  we  to  Marlborough ;  where  we  arrived  about 
noon.  The  concern  to  appoint  a  Meeting  for  Worship  for 
the  inhabitants  of  that  town,  resting  with  weight  upon  my 
mind,  it  was  laid  before  the  elders,  who  making  no  objec- 
tions, it  was  appointed  to  be  held  next  day  at  seven  o'clock 
in  the  evening — being  First-day.  The  meeting  was  held  in 
the  town  hall,  where  we  found  the  house  about  half  filled 
with  men,  women  and  children  ;  and  such  a  scene  of  confu- 
sion on  such  an  occasion,  I  never  before  witnessed.  Some 
were  laughing  and  talking  aloud  ;  some  whistling  and  hum- 
ming in  a  light,  irreverent  manner ;  and  the  prospect  for  a 
quiet  settlement,  to  all  outward  appearances,  was  discour- 
aging: yet  my  mind  felt  in  a  good  degree  staid  upon  Him, 
who  I  believed  had  required  me  to  come  here.  We  took 
our  seats,  and  trusted  to  his  interposing  power.  Soon  the 
company  began  to  find  seats,  and  to  become  more  quiet  and 
orderly.  Still  some  kept  whispering.  After  the  meeting  was 
pretty  much  gathered,  I  informed  them,  that  I  was  a  stran- 
ger amongst  them,  had  come  a  considerable  distance  to  be 
with  them  in  a  Meeting  for  Worship,  and  felt  desirous  that 
we  might  settle  down  into  a  quiet,  waiting  frame  of  mind, 
and  endeavor  to  worship  God  in  spirit  and  in  Truth.  After 
taking  my  seat,  and  remaining  silent  for  some  time,  my 
mouth  was  again  opened,  to  declare  the  glad  tidings  of  the 


126  JOURNAL    OF  [1853. 

gospel  of  our  Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ ;  and  I  had 
large  and  open  service  amongst  them,  greatly  to  the  relief 
of  my  mind.  The  prospect  of  this  meeting  had  for  months 
past  borne  with  weight  on  my  mind,  and  now  I  was  enabled 
through  holy  help  to  cast  off  a  great  burden.  Blessed, 
praised  and  magnified  be  the  name  of  Israel's  Shepherd.  He 
bringeth  low  and  raiseth  up,  and  is  worthy  of  all  glory  and 
honor  forever.  I  was  largely  opened  in  this  meeting  to  de- 
clare against  infidelity,  atheism,  and  all  unrighteousness ; 
and  had  to  bear  my  testimony  against  those  works  of  dark- 
ness, called  spiritual  rappings,  and  the  workers  thereof; 
stating  my  belief,  that  it  was  the  devil  and  his  agents  who 
carried  it  on,  and  were  the  originators  thereof.  A  young 
man,  a  stranger  to  us,  expressed  his  satisfaction  with  what 
he  had  heard  delivered. 

Next  morning  proceeded  back  to  Ravenna,  where  I  felt 
a  concern  to  have  a  religious  opportunity  with  the  innkeeper 
and  his. family,  which  was  readily  acceded  to  on  their  part, 
and  we  sat  down  together  to  wait  upon  the  Lord.  Here  I 
had  to  revive  the  necessity  and  obligations  that  rest  upon 
us,  if  we  would  be  owned  of  Christ  before  his  Father  and 
the  holy  angels;  not  to  deny  Him  before  men,  not  to  be 
ashamed  of  his  cross  before  a  crooked  and  perverse  genera- 
tion. It  was  to  me  a  satisfactory  opportunity;  his  wife  ap- 
peared in  a  tender,  sweet  frame  of  mind,  and  I  left  them 
peaceful  and  easy.  That  afternoon  rode  twenty  miles  to 
Goshen  ;  got  to  R.  E's  about  eight  o'clock  at  night,  and 
found  the  parents  from  home ;  but  the  children  kind  and 
attentive.  Next  morning  had  a  religious  opportunity  with 
the  children  of  this  family ;  and  had  I  delivered  the  whole 
counsel  of  the  Lord  to  some  of  them,  I  should  not  have  come 
away  burdened  as  I  did.  I  felt  that  there  were  snares  cast 
about  the  feet  of  some  of  them,  in  which  they  would  be  taken, 


1853.]  ANN     BRANSON.  127 

if  a  more  strict  watch  was  not  maintained.  I  let  in  the 
reasoner,  and  did  not  acquit  myself  faithfully.  A  fear  rested 
with  me,  that  more  than  one  of  the  young  Friends  then 
present  was  not  willing  to  support  our  principles  and  testi- 
monies in  regard  to  some  things.  After  hinting  to  one  of 
the  girls  a  little  of  my  feelings,  I  came  away  with  a  heavy 
heart. 

Went  to  Aaron  Woolman's,  an  honest,  sincere-hearted 
Friend,  in  a  declining  state  of  health.  On  inquiry,  he  said 
that  he  suffered  but  little  pain  of  body,  and  was  favored 
with  peace  of  mind ;  and  there  was  such  a  quiet  serenity  to 
be  felt  in  his  company  that  needed  not  words  to  tell  that  the 
Master's  calming  influence  was  there.  I  proposed  the  family 
being  collected ;  and  had  some  encouragement  to  hand  forth 
to  the  young  people,  four  in  number.  I  exhorted  them  to 
arise,  and  shake  themselves  from  everything  that  hindered 
them  from  the  service  in  the  Church  whereunto  they  were 
called ;  that  as  the  fathers  and  mothers  were  removed,  there 
might  be  those  to  take  their  places.  "  Say  not  four  months 
and  then  cometh  harvest.  Lift  up  your  eyes  and  look  on 
the  fields  ;  for  they  are  white  already  to  harvest."  There  is 
now  a  work  and  labor  to  perform,  and  there  is  no  putting 
it  off  with  safety ;  the  Lord  will  have  a  people  to  his  praise. 
The  privileges  of  the  birthright  members  of  our  Society  if 
not  more  appreciated,  will  be  taken  from  them,  and  if  there 
is  not  a  turning  and  returning  unto  the  Lord,  who  hath 
smitten  us,  many  of  the  members  of  our  religious  Society 
will  experience  the  truth  of  this  language — "  Our  inheritance 
is  turned  to  strangers,  our  houses  to  aliens."  That  evening 
returned  to  Salem. 

Next  day  being  the  23rd  of  the  month,  attended  Salem 
Monthly  Meeting ;  was  silent  in  the  forepart,  but  towards 
the  close  of  the  women's  meeting  the  language  of  Pilate  to 


128  JOURNAL    OF  [1853. 

the  Jews,  just  before  the  crucifixion  of  our  Saviour,  together 
with  their  I'eply,  forcibly  presented  to  the  view  of  iny  mind, 
"Behold  your  King."  The  Jews  answered,  "we  have  no 
king  but  Caesar."  I  had  to  query  with  them,  whom  they 
owned  as  their  king.  Whether  in  their  daily  walks  and 
conversation,  they  were  denying  the  meek  and  humble  Jesus, 
and  following  the  world  and  the  spirit  of  the  world,  thus 
saying  in  the  line  of  their  conduct,  we  have  no  king  but 
Csesar.  This  testimony  was  close  and  searching,  but  I  felt 
peaceful.  After  meeting  paid  a  visit  to  an  afflicted  relative, 
for  whom  my  mind  had  for  several  years  been  at  times  deep- 
ly exercised ;  believing  that  the  offers  of  salvation  through 
Jesus  Christ,  the  only  and  alone  way  to  peace  and  everlast- 
ing happiness,  had  been  slighted  by  him,  until  the  eleventh 
hour  was  come,  or  nearly  so.  I  found  it  my  place  to  tell 
him,  that  I  had  never  felt  like  saying  to  any  relation,  friend 
or  fellow-creature — "  Stand  by  thyself,  for  I  am  holier  than 
thou,"  but  far  otherwise ;  yet  the  truth  of  this  declaration 
was  sealed  on  my  mind — "  Without  holiness  no  man  shall 
see  the  Lord."  That  however  we  may  be  surrounded  with 
stumbling-blocks  on  the  right  hand,  and  on  the  left,  it  will 
afford  us  no  available  excuse,  when  called  upon  to  give  an 
account  of  the  deeds  done  in  the  body.  If  our  day's  work 
is  not  done  the  fault  will  be  our  own,  for  He  whose  power 
is  above  every  other  power,  and  who  has  called  us  to  glory 
and  to  virtue,  is  able  and  willing,  as  we  look  unto  and  trust 
in  Him,  to  make  a  way  for  our  escape  from  everything  that 
would  hinder  our  progress  in  the  strait  and  narrow  way 
which  leads  to  life.  I  exhorted  him  to  turn  inward  to  the 
gift  of  grace  revealed  in  his  heart,  and  let  the  welfare  of  his 
soul  have  the  chief  place ;  that  it  was  high  time  to  wake  up 
to  the  importance  of  being  ready  to  meet  the  Bridegroom  of 
souls,  for  if  the  oil  was  lacking  when  the  midnight  cry  was 


1853.]  ANN     BRANSON.  129 

heard,  no  friend,  or  physician,  or  any  instrumental  help 
would  then  prove  availing.  After  supplicating  the  throne 
of  grace,  and  commending  the  care  and  keeping  of  our  souls 
unto  God,  I  felt  peaceful  and  easy. 

Went  to  W.  F's,  where  we  met  J.  E.  and  companion,  and 
several  other  Friends.  After  spending  some  time  in  cheer- 
ful conversation,  we  dropped  into  silence,  which  continued 
uninterrupted  for  a  considerable  time ;  when  it  appeared 
right  for  me  to  say,  that  during  our  silent  waiting  together, 
I  had  been  forcibly  reminded  of  our  Saviour's  language  to 
his  disciples,  when  describing  to  them  what  great  distresses 
and  perplexities  they  should  be  witnesses  of  in  their  day  and 
generation.  There  should  be  wars  and  rumors  of  wars — 
earthquakes  in  divers  places — men's  hearts  failing  them  for 
fear,  and  for  looking  after  those  things  that  were  coming 
upon  the  earth.  "  Then  if  any  man  shall  say  unto  you,  Lo, 
here  is  Christ,  or  Lo,  He  is  there ;  believe  it  not.  For  as 
the  lightning  cometh  out  of  the  east,  and  shineth  even  unto 
the  west ;  so  shall  also  the  coming  of  the  Son  of  man  be." 
I  had  to  delare  that  I  believed  it  to  be  as  needful  for  us  in 
this  day,  to  wait  for  the  coming  of  the  Son  of  man  as  it  was 
for  those  to  whom  this  language  was  then  addressed.  That 
we  should  not  go  forth  at  the  sound  of  the  lo,  here  is  Christ ; 
or  lo,  He  is  there :  but  to  get  on  the  watch  tower,  and  keep 
on  it,  "dwelling  in  the  ward  whole  nights."  That  our  early 
friends,  by  the  operation  of  the  holy  Spirit  upon  their  minds, 
by  deep  baptisms,  and  waiting  upon  the  Lord  in  the  way  of 
his  judgments;  were  brought  to  a  clear  discernment  of  the 
will  of  God  concerning  themselves ;  and  were  also  able  to 
detect  error  and  wrong  in  others ;  being  able  to  say  trium- 
phantly, "  Lo,  this  is  the  Lord !  we  have  waited  for  Him  ; 
we  will  be  glad  and  rejoice  in  his  salvation."  As  this  was 
their  experience,  so  as  we  are  willing  to  bow  before  Him,  in 


130  JOURNAL    OF  [1853. 

humiliation  and  prostration  of  soul,  in  his  own  time  He  would 
give  us  to  experience  that  as  the  "  lightning  cometh  out  of 
the  east,  and  shineth  even  unto  the  west,  so  shall  the  coming 
of  the  Son  of  man  be."  That  no  disappointment  awaits 
those  who  truly  fear,  and  wait  upon  the  Lord,  in  singleness 
of  heart.  Those  who  are  truly  desirous  to  be  his  followers, 
He  will  lead  and  guide.  He  will  be  their  Urim  and  Thum- 
mim,  their  light  and  perfection,  their  all  in  all;  and  enable 
them  to  feed  together  in  heavenly  places,  as  certainly  re- 
vealing himself  spiritually  to  them  as  He  did  in  the  days  of 
his  flesh  to  his  disciples,  when  He  invited  them  on  this  wise. 
"  Children  come  and  dine."  And  none  of  the  disciples  durst 
ask  Him,  "  Who  art  thou?"  knowing  that  it  was  the  Lord. 
Paid  a  visit  to  C.  and  S.  Moore,  then  returned  to  M.  J. 
Fawcett's  and  found  several  young  people  had  come  in  to 
spend  the  evening.  Before  separating,  a  chapter  in  the 
Bible  was  read  ;  after  which  I  thought  it  right  to  speak  of 
the  necessity  of  spending  our  time  soberly  while  here  below. 
The  Christian  may  be  cheerful,  but  not  light,  trifling  and 
vain.  Those  only  who  do  the  will  of  our  Father  in  heaven, 
have  a  right  to  be  cheerful.  Christianity  does  not  lead  into 
gloominess,  melancholy  and  despair:  neither  does  it  lead 
into  vanity,  lightness  and  forgetfulness  of  God.  As  we  sub- 
mit ourselves  unto  Him,  letting  Him  "  work  in  us  to  will 
and  to  do  of  his  own  good  pleasure ; "  every  thing  in  our 
nature  that  is  crooked  and  perverse — every  thing  rough, 
snarlish  and  selfish,  will  be  brought  into  order ;  all  disposi- 
tion to  be  preferred  one  above  another,  or  lord  it  over  one 
another,  will  be  brought  down,  as  we  experience  his  gospel 
power  operating  in  our  hearts.  Whilst  the  day  of  mercy 
lasteth,  every  thing  around  us  proclaims  this  language — 
"  Pass  the  time  of  your  sojourning  here  in  fear."  "  Live  so- 
berly, righteously  and  godly  in  this  present  world." 


1853.]  ANN    BRANSON.  131 

Next  morning  rode  to  New  Garden  Monthly  Meeting, 
but  was  silent  throughout.  J.  E.  had  good  service.  I  ap- 
pointed a  meeting  for  the  inhabitants  of  this  town  to  be  held 
at  seven  o'clock  same  evening.  It  proved  a  time  of  labori- 
ous exercise,  with  but  little  relief  of  mind,  partly  owing  to 
causes,  I  believe,  existing  with  myself.  I  feared  my  com- 
munication was  too  lengthy,  and  too  complex  to  be  as  profit- 
able to  the  people  as  it  otherwise  might  have  been.  Minis- 
ters must  know  judgment  laid  to  the  line  in  themselves,  and 
a  careful  watch  set,  that  they  do  not  exceed  their  proper 
bounds,  when  greatly  exercised  for  the  welfare  of  the  peo- 
ple ;  as  well  as  not  to  cut  short  or  curtail  that  which  is  given 
them  to  deliver.  No  relief  can  be  obtained  by  prolonging 
such  communications,  when  the  time  comes  to  stop,  however 
the  burden  and  exercises  for  the  people  may  continue. 

Lodged  that  night  at  Lewis  Walker's.  Next  morning, 
my  mouth  was  opened  in  a  religious  opportunity  with  the 
family  and  several  Friends  present,  to  speak  of  the  good- 
ness, mercy  and  power  of  God ;  that  He  can  keep  us  alive 
in  famine.  When  the  widow  spoken  of  in  the  Scriptures, 
was  apprehensive  that  the  time  drew  near,  when  she  and  her 
son  must  die  of  famine,  she  did  not  sit  down  and  despair, 
without  doing  her  part  towards  preparing  the  last  morsel, 
as  she  supposed,  for  herself  and  son.  Before  the  last  cake 
was  to  be  baked,  her  faith  was  put  to  the  test,  but  not  with- 
out the  promise,  that  if  she  would  first  bake  a  cake  for  the 
prophet,  the  meal  and  oil  should  not  fail.  This  account 
shows  the  necessity  of  walking  by  faith,  and  not  giving  out 
in  the  darkest  and  most  gloomy  time,  however  long  the  win- 
ter may  continue ;  and  however  bleak  the  winds ;  and  how- 
ever hard  and  cutting  the  frosts  and  cold  thereof;  yet  the 
Lord's  power  is  over  all.  I  had  to  speak  of  the  necessity  of 
keeping  the  faith  and  patience  through  all.  That  the  Lord 


132  JOURNAL     OF  [1853. 

would  in  his  own  time  arise  and  scatter  the  gloom  and  bid 
the  winds  and  waves  be  still,  and  produce  a  calm,  and 
replenish  the  souls  of  those  who  trust  in  Him  with  good 
things. 

The  same  day,  attended  Sandy  Spring  Monthly  Meeting. 
I  was  silent  in  the  forepart.  J.  E.  had  a  lively  testimony ; 
but  the  Gurneyites  being  rulers  in  that  meeting,  and  having 
both  the  clerks,  they  did  not  record  his  attendance  as  ac- 
ceptable. Towards  the  latter  part  of  the  women's  meeting, 
I  found  it  right  to  revive  the  language  of  Esau,  which  had 
been  uppermost  with  me  nearly  ever  since  taking  my  seat 
in  the  meeting — "Bless  me,  even  me,  oh,  my  Father!"  I 
told  them  that  I  had  feared,  and  greatly  feared,  that  there 
were  those  present  whose  situation  resembled  Esau's,  who 
were  crying  out  for  the  blessing,  but  who  had  not  regarded 
their  birthright ;  but  when  that  nature  which  was  appointed 
to  die,  was  in  great  distress  and  hunger ;  they  had  for  some- 
thing to  satisfy  this,  sold  their  birthright,  and  were  now 
charging  their  leanness  and  distress  to  others  who  were  not 
the  cause  thereof.  That  it  would  be  well  for  such  to  recur, 
and  return  to  first  principles,  lest  the  day  come  when  this 
would  be  the  language  of  their  hearts — "The  harvest  is 
passed,  the  summer  is  ended  and  we  are  not  saved."  Dined 
at  Robert  Miller's,  and  after  dinner  started  for  home,  and 
rode  nineteen  miles  to  Harlem — nine  miles  after  night. 
Next  evening,  reached  home  in  as  good  health  as  when  we 
started,  having  been  just  three  weeks  out  on  this  visit. 


1859.]  ANN    BRANSON.  133 


CHAPTER    VI. 

A  RELIGIOUS  VISIT  TO  PENNSVILLE  QUARTER  AND  ITS  BRANCHES,  AND  MANY 
FAMILIES  —  HER  TESTIMONY  AGAINST  MUSIC  —  A  RELIGIOUS  VISIT  TO 
STILLWATER  QUARTER  AND  ITS  BRANCHES,  AND  SOME  FAMILIES,  ACCOM- 
PANIED BY  CLOSE  EXERCISES  —  VISITS  MEETINGS  ABOUT  HOME,  AND 

APPOINTS  SOME  MEETINGS  AMONGST  NON-MEMBERS — VlSITED  FAMILIES 
AT  GUERNSEY  —  AGAIN  VISITED  STILLWATER — AND  ALSO  PERFORMED 
RELIGIOUS  SERVICE  WITHIN  THE  LIMITS  OF  SHORT-CREEK  MONTHLY 
MEETING — LABOR  WITH  LABAN  MITCHELL  AGAINST  HIS  GOING  TO  THE 
ARMY— AND  A  NOTICE  OF  HIS  DEATH  SOON  AFTER — LABOR  AND  APPOINT- 
MENT OF  MEETINGS  AT  GUERNSEY. 

Eleventh  Month  13th,  1859. — With  a  Minute  of  concur- 
rence from  our  Monthly  Meeting,  I  set  out  on  a  visit  to  the 
meetings  of  Pennsville  Quarterly  Meeting ;  the  weather  was 
very  cold  and  stormy — as  much  so  as  I  ever  travelled  in — 
and  my  health  being  poor,  if  faith  had  not  been  given  me, 
I  should  have  returned  home  after  reaching  Guernsey.  But 
believing  the  Master  would  take  care  of  us  (having  Isaac 
Mitchell  and  Rebecca  Wright  for  companions),  we  pursued 
our  journey,  and  attended  all  the  meetings  in  the  limits  of 
that  quarter ;  and  appointed  a  Public  Meeting  at  McCon- 
nelsville,  a  town  on  the  Muskingum  River.  It  was  large 
and  favored.  Oh,  the  poverty  and  strippedness  that  I  ex- 
perienced on  going  to  this  meeting,  but  such  had  been  my 
exercises  before  giving  up  to  appoint  it,  that  I  felt  willing 
to  become  a  fool,  or  anything  that  the  Lord  might  permit 
for  the  sake  of  peace.  And  He  was  to  me  mouth  and  wis- 
dom, tongue  and  utterance,  and  a  present  help  in  time  of 
need. 

The  people  were  quiet,  sober  and  attentive,  and  I  thought 
truth  triumphed  over  all  opposition,  blessed  be  the  name  of 
the  Lord.  But  to  return,  in  the  Women's  Quarterly  Meet- 
ing I  was  constrained  to  revive  the  language  of  the  prophet 


134  JOURNAL     OF  [1859. 

Jeremiah  contained  in  the  ninth  chapter,  beginning  with  the 
seventeenth  verse  and  ending  with  the  twenty-fourth.  I 
thought  some  wondered  that  I  should  thus  speak,  but  be- 
lieving it  required  of  me,  I  endeavored  to  be  faithful. 

On  the  21st,  appointed  a  Meeting  for  the  young  people 
at  Pennsville,  but  notice  being  extended  beyond  my  request, 
it  was  very  large ;  and  not  keeping  close  to  my  Guide,  I 
stopped  short  in  my  supplication,  and  arose  from  my  knees 
before  the  right  time,  which  brought  great  confusion,  and 
distress  upon  me,  and  the  meeting  did  not  end  satisfactorily 
to  myself  or  to  others,  as  I  have  cause  to  believe.  The  Lord 
is  a  jealous  God ;  jealous  of  his  honor,  He  will  not  give  his 
glory  to  another,  or  his  praise  to  graven  images,  no  matter 
how  much  or  how  highly  we  may  have  been  favored  here- 
tofore, if  we  swerve  from  faithfully  following  the  true  Shep- 
herd we  will  find  nothing  but  confusion  and  perplexity. 
My  sufferings  after  this  meeting  were  indescribable,  but  in 
the  Lord's  own  time  He  spake  peace  to  my  soul  and  raised 
me  up  from  the  low  dungeon  into  which  I  was  for  a  time 
permitted  to  sink.  I  waited  patiently  upon  the  Lord  and 
He  heard  my  cry  and  spake  peace  to  my  greatly  troubled 
soul.  Appointed  a  meeting  at  Chesterfield  for  the  young 
people  which  I  thought  a  favored  one.  The  last  meeting 
we  attended  in  this  quarter  was  at  Pennsville  on  our  return 
home,  and  I  might  say  Truth  reigned  over  all.  I  had  been 
brought  very  low  since  being  there  before,  and  now  desired 
that  whatever  the  Lord  required  of  me  I  might  perform 
without  turning  to  the  right  hand  or  the  left.  I  told  them 
in  this  meeting,  that  they  had  a  covering  spread  over,  in 
imitation  of  the  pure  white  linen — the  righteousness  of  the 
saints — but  it  was  nothing  better  than  paper  muslin,  noth- 
ing that  would  stand  the  storm ;  that  the  first  man  is  of  the 
earth,  earthly,  the  second  man  is  the  Lord  from  heaven. 


1859.]  ANN     BRANSON.  135 

That  as  we  have  borne  the  image  of  the  earthly,  we  must,  if 
we  would  be  the  followers  of  the  Lamb,  bear  the  image  of 
the  heavenly. 

I  had  to  allude  to  deism  and  universalism,  and  class  them 
together,  and  speak  plain  truths  to  those  who  were  tinctured 
with  this  doctrine.  I  afterwards  found  there  was  one  young 
man  (and  how  many  more  I  know  riot)  present,  whose  as- 
sociates when  at  home  were  of  this  class.  I  told  them  that 
however  hard  it  was  for  me  to  speak,  or  them  to  listen,  I 
must  be  faithful  and  deliver  the  whole  counsel  of  the  Lord. 
After  meeting,  Friends  spoke  very  kindly  to  me,  and  some 
with  tears  in  their  eyes,  who  before  had  been  shy  and  dis- 
tant. But  I  could  appeal  to  the  Searcher  of  hearts,  that  it 
was  his  honor  I  sought,  and  not  my  own,  and  so  my  reward 
was  peace.  In  this  visit  within  the  limits  of  this  Quarterly 
Meeting,  I  was  astonished  to  behold  such  wholesale  depart- 
ure from  Christian  simplicity  as  was  apparent  in  the  dress 
of  the  young  people.  Surely  the  Lord's  judgments  are  near 
to  come,  and  I  had  to  tell  them  that  the  Lord  would  not 
be  mocked  ;  that  the  testimonies  for  which  our  worthy  pre- 
decessors suffered  imprisonment  and  death,  many  were  now 
trampling  under  their  feet.  The  children  of  the  kingdom, 
if  they  continue  to  slight  the  offers  of  redeeming  love  to 
their  souls,  will  be  cast  out  and  others  called  in  to  take 
their  places.  Oh,  the  grievous  departures  from  Christian 
simplicity !  What  will  we  not  have  to  suffer  before  we  are 
brought  back  upon  ancient  ground. 

Started  for  Stillwater  on  the  27th  and  arrived  there  the 
29th,  in  time  to  attend  the  Select  Meeting;  and  the  day 
following,  Stillwater  Quarterly  Meeting,  but  had  nothing 
to  communicate.  Next  day  returned  home. 

Some  things  I  have  omitted  to  mention  in  their  proper 
places,  which  occurred  during  this  visit,  viz :  calling  at  a 


136  JOURNAL    OF  [1859. 

Friend's  house  in  Chesterfield,  I  inquired  for  the  children, 
having  been  previously  invited  to  come ;  and  also  having 
my  mind  impressed  with  a  belief,  that  it  would  be  right  for 
me  to  go.  The  mother  informed  me  that  some  of  the  chil- 
dren were  at  school,  some  from  home,  and  two  at  home ; 
one  of  whom  was  busily  engaged  preparing  to  leave  home 
the  next  day  to  teach  school.  Having  given  them  to  expect 
I  would  be  there  that  afternoon,  I  again  made  some  allusion 
to  the  children's  absence.  The  mother  replied  (rather  pet- 
tishly, I  thought)  that  those  who  were  at  home,  one  was 
busily  engaged  packing  her  trunk  to  leave  home,  and  the 
other  was  sick  in  bed.  After  a  while  one  came  in  and  sat 
down ;  it  occurred  to  my  mind  that  I  should  not  be  clear, 
without  seeing  the  daughter,  who  they  said  was  sick  in  bed. 
So  I  proposed  going  to  her  room,  her  sister  leading  the 
way.  I  met  her  at  the  head  of  the  stairs,  and  told  her, 
that  however  she  might  hide  from  man,  she  could  not  hide 
from  God.  I  warned  her  to  take  heed  to  her  ways,  and 
ponder  the  paths  of  her  feet.  Not  to  set  light  by  our  Chris- 
tian principles  and  testimonies;  to  avoid  pernicious  com- 
pany and  pernicious  reading.  Her  sister  wept  much.  I 
told  them  in  the  words  of  the  poet,  "  That  with  the  talents 
of  an  angel  a  man  may  be  a  fpol."  They  were  talented 
young  women.  I  said,  I  am  unacquainted  with  your  course 
of  conduct ;  but  I  felt  constrained  to  admonish  them,  and 
exhort  them  to  walk  in  the  fear  and  counsel  of  the  Lord, 
and  not  to  be  stumbling-blocks,  and  bring  a  reproach  upon 
the  Truth.  Then  we  went  down-stairs,  where  I  had  left 
their  parents  and  my  companions.  But  now  comes  another 
failure  of  mine  in  not  delivering  the  whole  counsel  to  their 
parents,  though  I  said  considerable  by  way  of  counsel  and 
advice,  encouraging  them  to  discharge  their  duty  faithfully 
towards  their  children,  yet  for  hastening  away  and  keeping 


1859.]  ANN     BRANSON.  137 

back  a  part  which  belonged  to  them,  my  reward  was  not 
that  peace  which  I  desired.  The  Friend  who  accompanied 
us  here,  seeming  to  be  uneasy  and  wishing  to  go  sooner 
than  I  felt  fully  clear,  informed  us  afterwards  that  she  was 
afraid  the  family  would  think  that  she  had  been  telling  us 
how  it  was  with  them.  The  daughter,  who  was  said  to  be 
in  bed  when  we  went,  was,  or  had  been,  under  the  care  of 
the  overseers,  for  attending  balls  and  places  of  diversion, 
and  very  much  gone  out  in  her  dress  and  conduct  from  a 
consistent  walking  with  Friends ;  and  others  of  the  children 
not  far,  if  any,  behind  her.  Oh  the  poor  parents !  One  an 
overseer,  and  the  other  a  minister.  The  latter,  once  a 
promising  plant,  and  bid  fair  to  make  a  pillar  in  the 
Lord's  house ;  the  daughter  of  an  eminent  minister  of  the 
gospel  in  our  Society.  May  the  Lord  turn  his  hand  upon 
her,  and  purge  away  the  dross,  and  take  away  the  film 
from  her  spiritual  eyes,  saith  my  soul. 

On  our  way  from  Pennsville  to  Stillwater,  we  called  at  a 
private  house  to  stay  all  night.  The  family  consisted  of  the 
father  and  mother,  and  two  interesting  little  girls.  After 
supper,  whilst  I  was  talking  with  one  of  the  children,  the 
mother  asked  me  if  I  would  not  like  to  hear  her  (the  child) 
play  on  an  instrument  of  music.  I  replied,  No !  I  had  no 
desire  for  such  a  thing.  Then  she  asked  if  I  would  not  like 
to  see  the  instrument  itself.  I  said,  No !  telling  her  at  the 
same  time,  that  I  believed  our  time  was  given  us  for  a  better 
purpose  than  to  spend  in  such  an  idle,  vain  and  useless  way. 
She  then  asked  if  I  did  not  like  to  hear  singing.  I  replied 
in  the  negative,  explaining  my  views  upon  the  subject. 
Her  husband  then  coming  in,  and  being  apprised  of  our 
conversation,  looked  at  me  with  some  astonishment,  and 
said,  "  We  had  a  Quaker  with  us  a  short  time  ago,  who 
was  very  much  gratified  in  hearing  our  little  daughter  play 
10 


138  JOURNAL    OF  [1860. 

on  the  dulcimer.  My  companion  replied,  "  He  was  not  a 
consistent  member  of  our  Society."  "  Oh,  yes ! "  said  the 
man,  "  he  was  an  old  gentleman  in  good  standing,"  or  to 
this  import.  In  the  morning,  before  leaving,  I  embraced 
the  opportunity  of  relieving  my  mind  concerning  the  re- 
sponsibility resting  upon  them  as  parents,  to  endeavor  to 
train  up  their  children  in  the  nurture  and  admonition  of 
the  Lord,  and  not  to  feed  or  gratify  a  vain  mind  in  them- 
selves, or  their  children.  They  heard  and  received  what 
I  said  with  marked  attention  and  respect,  and  we  parted 
with  them  in  a  very  friendly  way.  I  then  went  on  my  way 
rejoicing.  Far  different  were  my  feelings  on  reflecting  upon 
this  little  occurrence,  than  if  I  had  shrunk  from  appre- 
hended duty ;  and  that  day  I  realized  what  the  Master  told 
me,  when  I  was  doubting  and  questioning  about  appointing 
two  meetings  in  the  limits  of  Pennsville  Quarter,  thinking 
the  weather  might  turn  cold,  and  the  roads  become  more 
difficult,  and  our  time  be  too  limited  to  reach  Stillwater 
Quarter.  As  I  was  pondering  these  things  in  my  mind  and 
reasoning  thereon,  suddenly  the  language  sounded  in  the 
ear  of  my  soul,  "  Are  not  the  winds  and  weather  in  my 
hand,  and  the  way  too  ?  be  obedient  and  all  will  be  well." 
I  was  hushed  into  silence  and  doubted  no  more.  And  now 
more  beautiful  weather,  or  a  more  pleasant  day,  or  better 
roads  than  we  were  then  travelling,  the  28th  of  the  Eleventh 
Month,  is  not  often  met  with  in  this  section  of  country,  at 
any  season  of  the  year.  So  I  find  it  is  good  to  trust  in  the 
Lord  at  all  times  and  in  the  greatest  strait. 

Sixth  Month  9th,  1860. — I  have  just  returned  from  a  re- 
ligious visit  to  the  meetings  within  the  limits  of  Stillwater 
Quarterly  Meeting,  having  been  from  home  about  two 
weeks,  during  which,  I  have  had  some  very  close  conflicts. 
Under  the  weight  thereof  it  sometimes  seemed  that  I  could 


I860.]  ANN     BRANSON.  139 

scarcely  live;  but  the  good  Master  helped  me  through. 
Stillwater  Monthly  Meeting  was  the  first  attended  in  which 
I  was  silent.  After  meeting,  I  requested  the  select  members 
to  stop.  I  spread  a  concern  before  them  to  appoint  a  meet- 
ing next  day  at  the  place  for  the  young  people  and  children 
belonging  to  that  meeting ;  which  was  fully  united  with,  and 
appointed  to  be  held  the  next  afternoon  at  three  o'clock. 
Next  day  attended  Stillwater  Meeting  in  the  forenoon  and 
was  silent  therein.  The  afternoon  meeting  was  well  attended, 
and"  I  had  considerable  service,  in  a  good  degree  to  the  re- 
lief of  my  mind.  Next  day,  the  28th  of  Fifth  Month,  at- 
tended Somerset  Monthly  Meeting,  held  at  the  Ridge ;  in 
which  my  mouth  was  opened,  to  speak  to  a  tried  state,  or 
states,  who  were  almost  ready  to  distrust  the  superintending 
care  and  providence  of  Almighty  God ;  because  of  the  flood 
the  Dragon  is  permitted  to  cast  out  of  his  mouth  to  destroy 
the  living  in  Israel.  My  heart  was  enlarged  in  the  love  of 
the  Gospel,  to  speak  of  the  goodness,  greatness  and  om- 
nipotence of  the  Lord's  power,  which  is  over  and  above 
every  other  power,  and  will  ever  remain  to  be — blessed  be 
his  name  forever. 

29th. — Attended  the  Select  Quarterly  Meeting  and  was 
silent  therein.  After  meeting,  laid  before  the  Select  mem- 
bers a  concern  that  had  long  rested  with  me,  to  appoint  a 
public  meeting  in  the  town  of  Barnesville,  which  was  united 
with,  and  the  subject  left  with  me,  and  a  few  Friends,  to 
attend  to  it  when  the  way  opens. 

30th. —  Attended  Stillwater  Quarterly  Meeting,  which 
was  very  large,  many  from  other  parts  of  the  Yearly  Meet- 
ing being  present,  it  being  the  first  time  of  holding  the 
Meeting  for  Sufferings  at  that  place.  Y.  W.  spoke  in  the 
public  meeting — also  my  cousin,  Asa  Branson ;  I  was  silent. 
When  the  business  was  nearly  through,  I  informed  women 


140  JOURNAL    OP  [1860. 

Friends  that  I  felt  a  concern  to  have  the  shutters  opened, 
and  see  men  and  women  Friends  together;  which  was 
united  with  by  men  and  women  Friends.  But  before  I 
yielded  to  this  requisition  of  duty,  I  felt  that  hard  things 
would  be  given  me  to  speak,  if  anything  was  required  ;  that 
I  said  in  my  heart :  Lord,  I  cannot  yield ;  it  were  better  for 
me  to  die  than  to  live  to  be  a  by-word,  a  taunt  and  a  ridicule ; 
a  song  in  the  mouth  of  the  vain  and  licentious ;  a  derision  to 
those  who  profess  the  Truth,  but  possess  it  not.  Then  came 
a  great  cloud  of  darkness  over  me,  so  that  I  felt  the  Lord's 
displeasure  had  been  kindled  towards  me,  and  I  knew  not 
what  to  do.  After  some  time  the  spirit  of  supplication  was 
given  me,  and  I  said,  "Lord,  here  I  am.  Do  with  me  as 
seemeth  unto  thee  good ;  require  what  thou  wilt,  only  take 
not  thy  Holy  Spirit  from  me.  I  will  endeavor  to  be  obe- 
dient and  deliver  the  whole  counsel."  Then  the  concern 
revived,  and  I  spread  it  before  Friends.  After  the  shutters 
were  opened,  I  stood  up  with  these  words:  "Are  there  those 
present  who  are  saying  in  their  hearts,  as  some  formerly 
said,  'Prophesy  unto  us  smooth  things,  prophesy  deceits;' 
I  cannot  prophesy  unto  you  smooth  things,  I  cannot  prophesy 
unto  you  deceits,  for  I  believe  there  is  a  terrible  day  ap- 
proaching, when  all  the  false  resting-places  will  and  must 
be  broken  up;  when  the  hail  will  sweep  away  the  refuge  of 
lies  and  the  waters  overflow  the  hiding-places.  That  how- 
ever any  might  be  making  their  nest  among  the  stars,  ex- 
alting themselves  very  high,  yet  if  their  foundation  was  not 
upon  the  rock,  Christ  Jesus,  they  must  come  down."  I  re- 
membered the  Word  of  the  Lord,  through  the  mouth  of  his 
prophet,  "I  judge  between  cattle  and  cattle,  between  the 
rams  and  the  he-goats.  Seemeth  it  a  small  thing  unto  you 
to  have  eaten  up  the  good  pasture?  but  ye  must  tread 
down  with  your  feet  the  residue  of  your  pastures  ?  and  to 


I860.]  ANN     BRANSON.  141 

have  drunk  of  the  deep  waters,  but  ye  must  foul  the  residue 
with  your  feet?  And  as  for  my  flock,  they  eat  that  which 
ye  have  trodden  with  your  feet,  and  they  drink  that  which 
ye  have  fouled  with  your  feet.  Because  ye  have  thrust  with 
side  and  with  shoulder,  and  pushed  all  the  diseased  with  your 
horns,  till  ye  have  scattered  them  abroad  ;  therefore  will  I 
save  my  flock,  and  they  shall  no  more  be  a  prey  ;  and  I  will 
judge  between  cattle  and  cattle.  I  will  feed  my  flock,  and 
I  will  cause  them  to  lie  down,  saith  the  Lord  God.  I  will 
seek  that  which  was  lost,  and  bring  again  that  which  was 
driven  away,  and  will  bind  up  that  which  was  broken,  and 
will  strengthen  that  which  was  sick ;  but  I  will  destroy  the 
fat  and  the  strong ;  I  will  feed  them  with  judgment.  As  a 
shepherd  seeketh  out  his  flock  in  the  day  that  he  is  among 
his  sheep  that  are  scattered ;  so  will  I  seek  out  my  sheep, 
and  will  deliver  them  out  of  all  places  where  they  have 
been  scattered  in  the  cloudy  and  dark  day."  However  any 
might  be  comparable  to  Balaam,  trying  to  please  God  and 
man,  they  would  be  disappointed.  In  vain  did  Balaam 
ascend  the  altars  which  Balak  had  reared  by  his  direction 
and  cry  out,  "  How  goodly  are  thy  tents,  0  Jacob,  and  thy 
tabernacles,  0  Israel ! "  Let  me  die  the  death  of  the  righteous, 
and  let  my  last  end  be  like  his!  But  Balaam  having  fol- 
lowed the  wages  of  unrighteousness,  being  double-eyed  and 
double-minded,  trying  to  please  God  and  man,  he  was  re- 
jected by  both.  "  Flee  thou  to  thy  place,"  said  Balak  ;  "  I 
thought  to  promote  thee  unto  great  honor;  but  lo,  the  Lord 
hath  kept  thee  back  from  honor ; "  and  as  Balaam  was  found 
slain  in  the  enemy's  camp,  so  will  it  prove  with  all  those 
who  are  trying  to  please  God  and  man :  the  Lord  will  keep 
them  back  from  honor.  After  this  meeting,  I  felt  satisfied 
that  I  had  yielded  to  apprehended  duty,  and  my  mind  was 
relieved  of  a  burden  in  some  degree. 


142  JOURNAL    OF  [1860. 

31st. — -Attended  Sunsbury  Meeting,  held  by  appointment 
to  pretty  good  satisfaction. 

Sixth  Month  1st. — Attended  Richland  Meeting,  and  was 
largely  engaged  therein,  to  ray  own  peace,  and  hope  in  some 
degree  to  the  profit  of  others.  The  subject  of  appointing  a 
meeting  at  Sailsville,  a  little  village  five  miles  from  Rich- 
land,  pressing  heavily  upon  me,  I  consulted  some  Friends 
about  it,  and  having  their  concurrence  and  unity,  the  meet- 
ing was  appointed  and  held  in  the  afternoon  the  2nd  of  this 
mouth.  It  proved  a  close,  exercising  time.  I  had  to  warn 
the  wicked,  to  turn  from  his  wicked  way  and  live.  The 
drunkard,  the  intemperate  and  careless  professor  were  sol- 
emnly warned  not  to  linger  on  the  brink  of  a  precipice. 
Rode  to  Stillwater,  ten  miles,  and  put  up  at  Robert  Smith's, 
and  this  evening,  whilst  sitting  in  their  parlor  with  my 
companion,  a  song  of  praise,  accompanied  with  a  holy 
solemnity,  flowed  through  my  heart ;  so  that  I  could  say, 
Lord,  it  is  enough,  at  which  time  this  language  of  our 
Saviour  revived  in  my  mind,  "  With  desire  I  have  desired 
to  eat  this  passover  with  you  before  I  suffer." 

3rd. — Attended  Stillwater  Meeting  in  the  forenoon,  and 
had  some  encouragement  to  the  rightly  exercised,  and  tribu- 
lated  ones  amongst  the  youth,  and  those  more  advanced ; 
and  felt  peaceful  as  to  what  I  had  delivered,  but  felt  a  great 
weight  pressing  upon  me  in  regard  to  the  meeting  to  be 
held  this  afternoon  in  Barnesville,  which  we  attended ;  and 
it  proved,  as  I  expected,  a  laborious  exercising  time ;  inso- 
much that  it  seemed  to  me  that  the  obstacles  thrown  in  the 
way,  would  almost  entirely  stop  the  current,  or  circulation 
of  life.  It  was  largely  attended,  and  they  generally  be- 
haved well.  As  ability  was  afforded,  I  endeavored  to  re- 
lieve my  rnind  among  them  ;  but  felt  after  meeting  very 
low  and  depressed  in  spirit,  and  weak  in  body.  Such  meet- 


I860.]  ANN     BRANSON.  143 

ings  are  often  very  exercising  to  me,  perhaps  partly  owing 
to  the  great  anxiety  I  feel,  that  the  Truth  may  not  suffer 
by  my  omission  or  commission  ;  for  truly  I  have  said,  Lord, 
I  have  no  qualification  for  such  a  service.  But  the  answer 
has  been,  If  thou  fefuse  to  warn  the  people  when  I  bid 
thee,  their  blood  will  I  require  at  thy  hands ;  and  on  no 
other  ground  have  I  dared  to  appoint  meetings  from  amongst 
Friends,  but  from  a  sense  of  duty  like  unto  this.  The  meet- 
ing had  been  on  my  mind  for  several  years.  I  had  to  deal 
plainly  with  professor  and  profane,  and  must  leave  the 
result  to  Him  who  I  apprehend  required  the  surrender  of 
my  will  herein. 

4th. — Visited  several  families  in  town. 

5th. — Visited  some  families  amongst  whom  a  difficulty 
and  difference  had  arisen  relative  to  temporal  affairs.  I 
exhorted  them  to  Christian  love  and  forbearance,  believing 
where  the  Spirit  of  Christ  is,  no  hard  or  censorious  feelings 
can  rest  in  our  hearts  against  any  one,  much  less  a  feeling 
of  enmity  and  jealousy  against  a  brother,  sister,  father  or 
mother.  I  had  to  deal  very  plainly  with  these  families, 
without  entering  into  the  subject  matter  of  difficulty,  warn- 
ing them  against  hard  feelings  and  hard  reflections,  and 
hope  the  Truth  did  not  suffer.  All  the  families  treated  us 
respectfully,  cast  no  reflections  upon  one  another,  which 
was  a  satisfaction  to  my  mind,  for  I  had  felt  very  anxious 
to  be  preserved  from  saying  or  doing  anything  to  make 
matters  worse  amongst  them,  remembering  the  words  of 
Solomon:  "He  that  meddleth  with  strife,  belonging  not  to 
him,  is  like  one  that  taketh  a  dog  by  the  ears." 

6th. — Attended  Still  water  Meeting,  in  which  I  had  a 
close,  searching  testimony,  exhorting  them  to  examine  their 
daily  walk  and  conversation,  bringing  into  view,  that  the 
beasts  which  under  the  Mosaic  law  were  considered  fit  for 


144  JOURNAL    OF  [1860. 

the  children  of  Israel  to  eat,  were  those  that  chewed  the 
«ud  and  divided  the  hoof;  the  one  was  not  sufficient  with- 
out the  other.  So,  under  the  Gospel  dispensation,  the  pre- 
cept and  example  of  professing  Christians  must  be  good, 
and  such  as  the  Lord  approves,  or  they  will  not  be  fit  ex- 
amples to  follow ;  for  whilst  any  are  drawing  near  unto  the 
Lord  with  their  mouths,  and  their  hearts  far  from  Him, 
their  example  contradicting  their  precepts,  this  is  like 
chewing  the  cud  without  dividing  the  hoof;  the  track  of 
the  foot,  as  well  as  the  operations  of  the  mouth,  are  to  be 
taken  into  the  account.  A  mere  nominal  profession  will 
not  do.  The  lights  of  such  as  these  will  be  like  a  candle 
put  under  a  bushel,  or  under  a  bed. 

A  bushel,  the  emblem  of  worldly  gain, 

A  bed,  where  the  sluggard  delights  to  remain. 

I  told  them  that  I  believed  some  were  buried,  as  it  were, 
in  the  earth.  Some  were  pursuing  the  pleasures  and  pas- 
times of  the  world ;  and  others  were  sleeping  in  an  uncon- 
cerned condition,  thinking  to  have  some  plausible  excuse 
(when  the  time  of  reckoning  comes)  for  not  having  occupied 
their  talents  aright,  but  such  will  fare  no  better  than  the 
man  spoken  of  in  the  parable,  who  was  found  among  the 
wedding  guests,  without  the  wedding  garment.  But  what 
was  said  to  the  man  who  thus  intruded  ?  "  Friend,  how 
earnest  thou  in  hither  without  a  wedding  garment?"  And 
he  was  speechless.  "  Bind  him  hand  and  foot,  and  cast  him 
into  outer  darkness ;  there  shall  be  weeping  and  gnashing 
of  teeth."  The  kingdom  of  God  is  preached,  and  every 
man  presseth  into  it.  How  do  they  press  into  it?  Some 
with  a  false  hope  and  a  dead  faith,  thinking  to  be  reckoned 
with  the  wedding  guests,  without  the  wedding  garment — 
without  a  change  of  raiment,  with  the  old  nature  which  is 
corrupt,  with  the  filthy  rags  of  their  own  righteousness; 


I860.]  ANN    BRANSON.  145 

they  presume  to  number  themselves  with  those  who  are  pre- 
pared to  partake  of  the  marriage  feast — the  signal  of  Divine 
and  lasting  favor  in  the  presence  of  the  great  God  and  his 
servants  forever.  It  seemed  to  me  that  there  were  some 
there  sleeping  almost  the  sleep  of  death,  who  needed  to  be 
awakened,  who  had  the  smell  of  tobacco  as  well  as  the 
smell  of  fire  upon  their  garments  and  round  about  their 
houses;  and  I  doubted  if  the  prophet  Ezekiel  were  there 
and  to  stamp  with  his  foot,  whether  it  would  wake  them  up. 
The  language  to  such  was,  "  Awake  to  righteousness  and  sin 
not,  for  some  have  fallen  asleep." 

In  the  afternoon  made  a  visit  to and  wife.   In  that 

opportunity  I  had  to  tell that  I  did  believe  that  un- 
less he  humbled  himself  and  came  down  to  the  footstool  of 
his  Divine  Master,  that  the  time  would  come,  if  he  pursued 
the  course  he  is  now  pursuing,  that  he  would  find  himself 
situated  as  Absalom,  left  without  any  help  from  above  or 
beneath.  The  mule  went  away  from  under  Absalom,  and 
left  him  hanging  between  earth  and  heaven,  without  any 
support  from  either.  I  told  him  that  I  believed  he  was 
giving  his  strength  to  the  Philistines,  and  the  consequences 
would  be  serious  and  awful  if  it  continued  thus.  I  felt  loath 
thus  to  express  myself  to  him,  feeling  nothing  in  my  heart 
towards  him  but  the  love  of  the  gospel,  and  I  would  gladly 
have  left  him  without  saying  what  I  did,  could  I  have  felt 
peace  without.  Much  plain  talk  passed  between  us  relative 
to  the  trying  condition  of  our  religious  Society,  on  account 
of  the  great  departure  from  our  principles  and  testimonies 
on  the  part  of  many  of  our  members  in  the  foremost  ranks, 
in  various  places.  And  I  think  it  may  be  the  last  conver- 
sation between  us  on  that  subject,  as  I  told  him  I  had  not 
unity  with  him,  and  that  it  was  only  from  a  sense  of  duty 


146  JOURNAL    OF  [1860. 

that  I  felt  at  liberty  to  visit  him.  But  my  heart  yearns  with 
inexpressible  solicitude  for  his  welfare. 

7th. — After  a  religious  opportunity  in  Robert  Smith's 
family,  I  felt  at  liberty  to  return  home. 

Seventh  Month  7th. — My  spirit  is  low  and  depressed ;  I 
have  to  wade  through  much  discouragement,  being  in  very 
poor  health  as  to  the  body,  and  no  strength  of  mind  only  as 
the  Lord  helps  me.  Oh,  that  I  was  more  what  He  would 
have  me  to  be.  Two  weeks  ago  I  appointed  three  meetings 
from  amongst  Friends,  and  have  felt  well  satisfied  in  attend- 
ing to  this  opening  and  requirement  of  duty.  Truly  I  can 
say,  the  Lord  strengthened  me  in  a  wonderful  manner  at 
Tippecanoe ;  a  place  where  I  had  long  felt  a  concern  to  ap- 
point a  meeting.  It  was  very  large,  and  the  Lord  gave  me 
strength  of  body  and  mind,  to  declare  the  gospel  of  life  and 
salvation  to  the  people,  to  my  own  relief  and  admiration, 
and  I  trust  the  truth  did  not  suffer. 

10th. — I  feel  much  weighed  down  in  spirit ;  may  the  Lord 
be  waited  upon.  Oh,  Lord,  I  am  unworthy  of  thy  help  and 
counsel ;  be  pleased,  I  pray  thee,  to  order  my  steps  aright, 
now  that  I  am  in  a  great  strait,  having  a  weight  of  exercise 
and  concern  on  my  spirit.  Lord  help  me,  for  vain  is  the 
help  of  man.  Some  trust  in  chariots  and  some  in  horses, 
but  we  will  trust  in  the  Lord  our  God. 

Eighth  Month  31st. — I  was  induced  by  what  I  appre- 
hended my  religious  duty  to  apply  to  the  Presbyterians 
about  four  miles  from  this  place  (Flushing)  to  hold  a  religious 
meeting  amongst  them.  After  granting  the  liberty,  they 
held  another  consultation,  and  authorized  their  minister  to 
let  the  Friends  know,  who  made  the  application,  that  it  was 
contrary  to  their  doctrine  and  practice  for  a  woman  to  speak 
in  the  church,  and  therefore  they  could  not  without  marring 
the  peace  and  harmony  amongst  themselves,  grant  the  re- 


I860.]  ANN    BRANSON.  147 

quest.  When  I  first  received  this  last  conclusion,  I  felt  a 
kind  of  secret  rejoicing  which  perhaps  the  Truth  did  not 
own ;  for  I  thought  if  I  could  be  released  from  them  in  this 
way,  it  would  be  a  favor ;  but  this  language  presently  ran 
through  my  mind,  viz  :  Wouldst  thou  rejoice  in  their  wrong 
judgment  and  conclusion?  So  I  have  thought  there  was 
much  self  in  their  release,  and  also  in  my  secret  rejoicing. 

Ninth  Month  2nd. — Appointed  a  meeting  in  the  village 
of  Flushing  for  the  inhabitants  thereof  and  the  neighbor- 
hood around.  It  was  held  to  pretty  good  satisfaction.  If 
the  people  knew  what  it  cost  me  to  appoint  such  meetings, 
they  could  not  suppose  that  it  was  from  anything  short  of 
preserving  my  spiritual  life ;  for  though  it  be  against  my 
will,  yet,  nevertheless,  a  dispensation  of  the  gospel  is  com- 
mitted unto  me,  yea,  woe  is  me  if  I  preach  not  the  gospel. 
My  cousin  A.  B.  was  engaged  in  the  ministry  at  this  meet- 
ing, and  I  believe  to  good  satisfaction.  Oh,  that  he  may  be 
preserved  on  the  right  foundation. 

How  many  of  the  visited  and  gifted  sons  and  daughters 
have  been  turned,  and  are  turning  aside  at  the  cry — Lo 
here,  or  lo  there  is  Christ,  seeking  an  easier  way  to  the  king- 
dom of  heaven  than  by  the  way  of  the  cross.  Having  begun 
in  the  spirit  they  seek  to  be  made  perfect  by  the  flesh,  and 
hence  become  vessels  marred  on  the  wheel,  instead  of  stand- 
ing with  their  loins  girt,  and  their  feet  in  the  bottom  of  Jor- 
dan, with  the  ark  of  the  testimony  resting  on  their  shoulders 
until  the  people  be  clean  passed  over ;  or  in  other  words, 
until  the  expectation  of  the  people  is  turned  away  from 
them.  Oh,  the  incalculable  mischief  that  has  been  done  in 
our  Society  of  latter  years  by  a  superficial  ministry.  Lord 
help  and  preserve  those  who  still  remain  on  the  right  foun- 
dation, that  stones  of  memorial  may  be  brought  up  from 
the  bottom  of  Jordan,  showing  thy  marvellous  dealings  with 


148  JOURNAL    OF  [1860. 

thy  people  who  serve  thee  in  singleness  of  heart.     Amen, 
saith  my  soul. 

Ninth  Month  14th. — Perhaps  few,  if  any,  know  the  hid- 
den conflicts  of  my  spirit.  Oh,  that  my  faith  may  be  re- 
newed and  increased  a  little  in  the  Lord,  in  whom  only 
there  is  strength.  Lord  increase  my  faith  in  thee,  the  only 
and  alone  sure  helper,  and  guide  thy  people  with  wisdom. 

It  is  now  nearly  a  year  since  I  obtained  a  Minute  from 
my  Monthly  Meeting,  for  religious  service  amongst  Friends 
and  others;  and  as  my  health  has  permitted  and  way  opened 
in  the  Truth,  I  have  not  put  off  any  duty  knowingly  required 
of  me,  yet  some  may  think  I  am  loitering. 

Tenth  Month  6th. — This  day  commenced  the  Select  Yearly 
Meeting  for  ministers  and  elders.  Oh,  may  my  Urim  and 
Thummim  be  with  the  Holy  One.  My  spirit  is  bowed  under 
awful  considerations.  Lord  assist  me,  I  beseech  thee,  and 
enable  me  to  do  thy  holy  will.  Great  indeed  is  the  effort 
of  the  Adversary  to  make  us  believe  we  are  in  a  better  situ- 
ation than  we  really  are.  Oh  Lord!  undeceive  us  before  it 
be  too  late,  that  we  fall  not  a  prey  to  the  cruel  Enemy.  My 
soul  is  exceedingly  sorrowful,  under  an  apprehension  that 
we  shall  yet  have  to  be  sifted  as  from  sieve  to  sieve,  notwith- 
standing all  we  have  heretofore  passed  through.  Oh,  hasten 
the  time  when  Mystery  Babylon  shall  cease  amongst  us  to 
mimic  the  true  gospel  power,  life,  light  and  truth  ;  when  the 
solemnity  that  prevails  shall  be  the  true  solemnity,  and  not 
a  false  representation  of  the  true.  When  the  words  spoken 
shall  have  the  substance,  the  life,  melting  into  tenderness 
the  humble  contrite  heart,  evincing  the  truth  as  it  is  in 
Jesus.  Oh  Lord !  thou  only  knowest  the  depths  of  Satan, 
and  thou  only  canst  open  our  eyes  and  instruct  our  spiritual 
understandings  to  count  the  number  of  the  beast;  and  his 
number  is  limited.  For  thou  surely  gave  thy  Apostle  John 


I860.]  ANN    BRANSON.  149 

to  see  that  it  is  the  number  of  a  man,  and  that  his  number 
is  limited ;  so  that  by  thy  might  and  thy  power  he  may  be 
overcome.  Glory  to  thy  name. 

25th. — Returned  the  Minute  to  the  Monthly  Meeting, 
granted  me  one  year  ago ;  and  felt  thankful  that  I  had  not 
been  permitted,  or  prevailed  upon  by  human  weakness,  to 
return  it  sooner. 

In  the  forepart  of  the  meeting  to-day,  I  felt  constrained 
to  revive  this  language — "  Oh,  that  thou  hadst  hearkened  to 
my  commandments !  then  had  thy  peace  been  as  a  river,  and 
thy  righteousness  as  the  waves  of  the  sea  ; "  expressing  my 
belief,  that  as  we  bow  to  the  will  of  the  Lord  in  all  things 
manifested  to  be  required,  He  will  fall  the  soul  with  good 
things,  giving  strength  and  ability  to  praise,  glorify  and 
magnify  his  great  and  adorable  name,  who  created  the 
heavens  and  the  earth,  the  seas  and  the  fountains  of  waters. 
After  saying  considerable  in  this  way,  I  felt  peaceful  and 
easy.  At  this  meeting,  I  requested  liberty  to  appoint  some 
more  meetings  amongst  those  not  in  membership  with  us, 
and  to  visit  the  meetings  belonging  to  our  own  Quarterly 
Meeting.  Also  to  visit  some  families  and  individuals  amongst 
Friends  and  others ;  which  was  united  with  by  the  meeting, 
and  liberty  given  to  perform  the  service  as  Truth  may  open 
the  way. 

Eleventh  Month  17th. — The  Quarterly  Meeting  endorsed 
my  Minute  for  the  service  above  mentioned  ;  and  my  pros- 
pect then  seemed  to  be  to  proceed  pretty  directly  to  appoint 
some  meetings ;  but  from  some  cause  the  clouds  seem  gath- 
ering and  resting  on  my  tabernacle ;  and  the  way  closing 
up  for  moving  immediately  in  the  service.  If  it  should  al- 
together close  up,  and  the  will  be  taken  for  the  deed,  I  trust 
that  I  shall  be  enabled  to  see  and  know  and  do  the  Master's 
will  herein.  I  am  beginning  to  think  some  proving  exer- 


150  JOURNAL    OF  [1860. 

cise  awaits  me,  separate  and  apart  from  this  service.  Lord ! 
enable  me,  I  beseech  thee,  to  lay  aside  my  own  will  in  all 
things,  so  that  I  can  say,  not  as  I  will  but  as  thou  wilt. 
Thou  hast  often  been  with  me  to  my  humble  admiration, 
and  to  the  filling  of  my  heart  with  praise.  Now,  if  thou  see 
meet  to  hide  thy  face  from  me,  and  to  prove  me  as  in  the 
deeps,  I  most  ardently  pray  thee  to  keep  my  tongue  from 
sinning  against  thee,  and  my  feet  from  pursuing  any  other 
course  than  that  marked  out  by  thee. 

Oh,  thou  fountain,  light,  life,  grace  and  truth  ;  thou  who 
didst  beget  me  into  a  lively,  living  and  glorious  hope  of 
eternal  salvation,  through  thy  dear  Son,  the  Lord  Jesus 
Christ,  when  I  was  without  life,  light,  or  truth  in  my  inner 
parts.  Thou  who  saw  me  and  had  compassion  on  me  when 
I  was  destitute,  and  had  none  in  heaven  or  in  earth  to  look 
to  but  thee.  Thou  who  saw  me  in  my  blood,  and  spread 
thy  skirt  of  love  over  me.  Thou  who  washed  me  with  pure 
water,  and  put  bracelets  upon  my  hands,  and  shoes  upon 
my  feet ;  who  said  unto  me  live,  when  life  and  hope  were 
almost  extinct.  Thou  who  didst  magnify  thy  power  in  that 
thou  didst  raise  me  up,  and  gave  me  spiritual  and  natural 
life,  when  both  seemed  alike  departing  from  me.  Thou  who 
hast  done  for  me  what  none  other  could  do  ;  forsake  me  not, 
oh,  thou  Holy  One !  but  enable  me  to  bear  whatever  thou 
mayest  permit  to  come  upon  me  for  my  own  refinement,  or 
for  the  sake  of  others.  Methinks  thou  hast  a  deep  baptism, 
or  baptisms,  for  me  to  pass  through  before  entering  on  this 
service;  therefore  I  pray  thee,  so  to  order  it,  that  I  may  keep 
the  faith  and  the  patience,  and  not  cast  away  my  shield  as 
though  it  had  not  been  anointed  with  holy  oil,  for  I  have 
seen  thy  wonders  in  the  deep,  and  known  that  thou  canst  do 
all  things  well.  Amen  and  amen. 
Twelfth  Month  28th. — I  am  now  at  Guernsey,  where  I  have 


I860.]  ANN     BRANSON.  151 

been  more  than  a  week  ;  most  of  the  time  as  a  close  prisoner ; 
but  I  feel  content  and  resigned  to  my  allotment,  greatly 
craving  that  I  may  be  kept  in  my  right  place.  Oh,  Lord ! 
all  that  I  ask  is,  that  thou  wilt  keep  me  in  the  place  thou 
designs  for  me,  even  if  it  be  to  walk  through  fire,  or  water. 
I  have  visited  a  few  families,  appointed  a  meeting  for  the 
young  and  youngish  people  and  children  in  this  neighbor- 
hood ;  had  also  a  religious  opportunity  with  a  young  man, 
greatly  to  the  relief  of  my  mind.  I  warned  him  in  an  especial 
manner  not  to  listen  to  the  doctrine  of  infidelity,  atheism, 
or  universalism.  I  had  to  use  language  which  was  very  try- 
ing to  utter,  but  I  told  him  as  I  knew  nothing  about  his 
company  or  course  of  conduct  (his  home  being  in  Iowa),  I 
wanted  him  to  receive  what  I  said  in  the  way  it  was  intended 
— in  gospel  love.  He  afterwards  acknowledged  that  most 
of  his  associates  when  at  home,  were  universalists :  that  what 
I  felt  and  said  on  that  subject  was  right.  And  I  think  he 
parted  with  us  under  a  feeling  of  conviction  and  tenderness. 
May  it  never  be  forgotten,  saith  my  soul.  I  have  had  to 
deliver  some  plain  truths  to  individuals,  without  using  any 
kind  of  a  plaster  to  make  them  set  more  easy  than  the  Mas- 
ter chooses ;  but  feel  that  the  hardest  is  yet  to  come. 

When  all  has  to  be  given  up  for  the  blessed  Truth's  sake, 
then  we  sometimes  feel  what  it  is  to  be  separated  from  those, 
who  before  had  been  very  friendly,  and  even  fawning  to- 
wards us.  Job's  integrity  was  put  to  the  test  more  ways 
than  one.  When  Satan  determined  to  overthrow  his  faith 
in  God,  he  left  no  stone  unturned  that  he  could  possibly 
move  to  upset  Job ;  but  God  kept  him. 

Oh,  thou  fountain  of  all  our  sure  mercies !  wilt  thou  keep 
me  when  nothing  but  trouble,  disappointment,  and  afflic- 
tion, both  within  and  without,  are  the  things  permitted  to 
come  upon  me?  Do  thou  be  graciously  pleased  to  bear  me 


152  JOURNAL    OF  [1861. 

up  until  my  change  come,  and  my  cup  of  suffering  be  drank, 
that  I  may  praise  thee  on  the  banks  of  deliverance. 

First  Month  2nd,  1861. — Yesterday,  visited  several  fami- 
lies not  members  of  our  religious  Society,  wherein  I  had 
close  and  searching  work,  to  the  relief  of  my  mind ;  also  felt 
it  required  of  me  to  go  into  a  merchant's  store-room,  where 
a  number  of  men  were  gathered,  and  declare  the  gospel  of 
life  and  salvation  amongst  them.  After  which,  I  felt  the 
reward  of  sweet  peace  in  a  good  degree ;  but  because  of  the 
bonds  and  afflictions  that  await  me,  my  rejoicing  is  of  short 
duration.  Nevertheless  I  have  felt,  and  particularly  yester- 
day, after  yielding  to  apprehended  duty,  the  force  of  this 
language  and  the  truth  thereof — "They  who  minister  about 
holy  things,  live  of  the  things  of  the  temple ;  and  they  who 
wait  at  the  altar  are  partakers  with  the  altar,  even  so  hath 
the  Lord  ordained  that  they  who  preach  the  gospel  should 
live  of  the  gospel."  Under  the  Mosaic  dispensation  the 
priests  were  allowed  their  portion,  or  what  was  left  of  the 
meat,  after  offering  a  burnt  offering,  and  were  to  eat  with 
unleavened  bread  before  the  altar.  Oh,  the  beauty,  the  dig- 
nity, the  excellency  of  the  gospel  dispensation,  as  typified 
under  the  law  of  Moses.  How  my  soul  admires,  and  my  heart 
adores,  that  power  that  broke  through  that  long  night  of 
apostacy  after  the  ushering  in  of  the  gospel  dispensation, 
and  gave  our  worthy  predecessors  to  see  in  the  glorious  light 
of  the  Son  of  righteousness,  the  transcendent  beauty,  excel- 
lency and  dignity  of  the  gospel  dispensation,  when  compared 
with  the  types,  shadows  and  ceremonies  of  the  law,  and  how 
we  are  required  to  rally  to  the  standard  of  primitive  Christi- 
anity ;  for  ancient  Quakerism  is  nothing  more  nor  less  than 
primitive  Christianity  revived.  Oh,  Lord!  I  am  exceed- 
ingly distressed,  undertake  for  me,  for  I  have  none  to  look 
unto  but  thee  for  help.  I  pray  thee  ease  my  burden,  by 


1861.]  ANN    BRANSON.  153 

giving  me  light  and  strength  to  obey  thy  Divine  require- 
ments ;  even  if  it  be  again  to  go  amongst  the  gainsaying 
and  rebellious — the  mockers  and  scoffers ;  and  those  that 
pluck  off  the  hair  and  spit  in  the  face. 

Have  visited  several  families  not  members  amongst  Friends, 
in  which  I  had  to  declare  the  day  of  the  Lord's  power  upon 
all  that  is  high  and  lifted  up ;  upon  all  the  oaks  of  Bashan, 
upon  all  the  cedars  of  Lebanon.  Oh,  how  gracious  has  my 
heavenly  Father  been  in  leading  me  about  and  instructing 
me. 

Sixth-day,  the  4th,  visited  a  district  school.  I  had  to  ad- 
dress a  young  man,  in  a  close,  warning  manner,  to  return 
from  his  wicked  way,  and  live.  I  afterwards  learned  he 
was  a  profligate  character.  I  left  the  school-house  with  a 
heavy  heart,  under  a  sense  that  there  were  those  in  that  dis- 
trict, or  section  of  country,  who  were  the  agents  of  Satan  to 
lead  others  astray.  I  soon  found  I  must  appoint  a  Meeting 
for  Worship  in  this  place  ;  which  was  held  on  the  5th,  at 
three  o'clock  in  the  afternoon,  in  the  same  school-house. 
The  meeting  was  small,  but  I  have  no  doubt  such  were  there 
as  I  was  required  to  see ;  for  truly,  I  have  rarely,  if  ever, 
met  with  so  many  open  and  barefaced  gainsayers  in  so  small 
a  company;  and  mostly  young  people.  But  I  had  to  deal 
plainly  with  them  ;  warning  them  of  the  evil  of  their  ways, 
and  the  consequences  which  must  result  therefrom,  if  they 
continued  in  their  downward  and  pernicious  course ;  telling 
them  that  the  day  would  come  if  they  did  not  turn  unto  the 
Lord,  that  He  would  laugh  at  their  calamity,  and  mock 
when  their  fear  cometh.  Sometimes  their  countenances 
would  fall  in  spite  of  all  their  striving  against  conviction, 
showing  that  the  heart  was  smitten  ;  then  they  would  rally, 
and  muster  all  their  force  to  put  it  from  them.  I  cleared 
my  conscience  towards  them,  and  encouraged  the  few  sober 
11 


154  JOURNAL    OF  [1861. 

ones  to  walk  in  the  right  path,  without  turning  in  with  the 
gay,  licentious  scoffers  of  this  day.  After  addressing  the 
throne  of  Grace  on  behalf  of  both  classes,  I  felt  clear  and 
easy  to  leave  them,  and  truly  thankful  that  I  had  given  up 
to  appoint  this  meeting. 

9th. — Attended  Guernsey  Meeting ;  several  strangers  were 
present  who  do  not  commonly  attend.  Again  I  had  to  sound 
the  warning  voice  to  some  of  them,  who,  notwithstanding 
they  have  again  and  again  been  invited  to  enter  into  the 
vineyard  of  their  own  hearts  and  labor,  are  putting  off  the 
work  of  their  soul's  salvation,  until  wisdom,  to  use  the  words 
of  the  poet,  is  pushed  out  of  life,  or  nearly  so  ;  telling  them 
not  to  dally  and  linger,  lest  the  door  of  mercy  be  forever 
closed  against  them.  Though  I  spoke  under  much  bodily 
weakness,  yet  I  believe  the  Truth  required,  and  owned  my 
service,  and  I  felt  peaceful  and  easy  after  meeting.  Lord 
be  pleased  to  keep  me  in  my  right  place.  I  feel  that  snares 
surround  me,  and  that  bonds  and  afflictions  abide  me,  from 
which  none  but  thy  holy  hand  can  rescue  me. 

23rd. — Returned  from  Guernsey,  where  I  remained  five 
weeks,  visiting  families,  individuals,  schools,  &c.,  as  way 
opened  and  my  health  admitted ;  also  attended  that  meet- 
ing regularly  as  it  came  in  course.  Had  not  the  Lord  been 
on  my  side  I  should  have  fainted ;  such  repulses  in  a  meeting 
of  Friends  I  never  before  remember  to  have  felt,  for  nothing 
openly  occurred  to  show  what  was  the  cause ;  but  I  felt 
those  smitings  that  were  harder  to  bear  than  open  opposition 
or  persecution.  But  I  was  favored  to  relieve  my  mind 
amongst  them,  at  least  in  a  considerable  degree.  I  made 
forty-nine  family  visits  in  that  neighborhood,  including  sev- 
eraUamilies  amongst  those  who  have  separated  from  us.  Be- 
fore leaving  this  account  of  my  visit  to  Guernsey,  I  think  it 
right  to  say,  that  on  one  occasion,  after  making  a  family 


1861.]  ANN     BRANSON.  155 

visit  where  I  had  delivered  what  appeared  required  of  me, 
both  to  parents  and  children,  and  had  left  the  house ;  this 
language  ran  through  my  mind — "Thou  must  go  back  to 

; "  it  filled  me  with  fear  and  trembling,  and  I  queried 

why  ?  I  have  said  all  that  I  thought  was  required  of  me. 
But  the  language  was,  "  thou  must  go  back ;  thou  didst  not 
get  to  the  root  of  the  matter ;  thou  didst  not  get  to  the  bot- 
tom." Then  I  felt  that  there  were  some  hard  feelings  crept 
into  the  hearts  of  some  of  the  family.  But  what  great  fear 
possessed  my  heart,  lest  I  should  be  mistaken.  So  after  try- 
ing the  fleece  both  wet  and  dry,  before  mentioning  my  feel- 
ings to  any  one ;  and  finding  I  could  not  return  home  with 
peace  of  mind  without  going  back ;  in  the  little  faith  and 
hope  which  is  ever  safe  to  follow,  I  mentioned  to  my  com- 
panions my  concern  to  return  to  this  family,  which  we  did  ; 
requesting  none  but  the  parents  and  a  young  woman  who 
lived  with  them  to  be  present.  I  then  plainly  told  them 
how  it  had  been  with  me,  since  being  there  before ;  telling 
them  if  I  was  mistaken  in  my  feelings,  I  hoped  they  would 
pass  it  by,  and  I  would  try  to  be  more  careful  in  future,  at 
the  same  time  remarking,  that  there  was  a  secret  language 
in  my  heart  which  said,  thou  hast  not  got  to  the  root,  there 
is  a  secret  hardness  against  some  which  is  not  rooted  out ; 
but  it  was  in  great  fear  and  trembling,  lest  I  should  be  mis- 
taken ;  but  after  fully  clearing  myself,  I  felt  easy  to  leave ; 
and  when  about  to  bid  farewell,  the  individual  (where  it 
seemed  to  me  the  testimony  belonged),  with  tears,  and  in 
much  brokenness  of  spirit,  said  to  me — "I  am  glad  thee 
came."  I  said  in  my  heart  it  is  enough ;  Lord  take  away 
from  me  that  fearful  spirit  which  had  nearly  prevented  me 
from  doing  thy  blessed  will.  For,  truly,  I  felt  it  a  great 
matter  to  go  and  charge  any  with  having  feelings  against  a 
friend  or  neighbor. 


156  JOURNAL    OF  [1861. 

Second  Month  9th. — It  has  presented  to  the  view  of  my 
mind,  to  leave  a  short  account  of  what  I  saw  and  felt  on  a 
sick  bed,  the  26th  of  the  Tenth  Month,  1833.  On  the 
morning  of  this  day,  I  felt  a  great  cloud  of  darkness  come 
over  the  land.  It  was  so  great,  that  it  was  plainly  to  be 
felt,  like  Egyptian  darkness ;  such  a  feeling  as  I  never  be- 
fore experienced.  It  was  a  sore  exercise  to  my  mind,  and 
I  saw  that  Friends  had  need  to  turn  unto  the  Lord,  for 
this  language  sounded  in  the  ear  of  my  soul,  viz :  "  Friends 
everywhere  turn  unto  the  Lord ;  revive  the  ancient  testi- 
monies." Then  I  requested  a  pen  and  paper,  that  I  might 
write  it  down,  which  I  did ;  and  I  requested  that  if  I  did  not 
recover  from  that  illness,  that  this  short  exhortation,  above 
given,  might  be  inserted  in  The  Friend,  for  I  saw  that  our 
Society  was  in  a  low  condition,  and  had  need  to  repair  the 
broken  down  walls ;  or,  in  other  words,  to  revive  the  an- 
cient testimonies.  Then  I  exhorted  Friends  to  stand  faith- 
ful to  our  principles  and  testimonies,  and  like  Nehemiah, 
to  labor  to  remove  the  stones  out  of  the  rubbish.  Little 
did  I  then  think  that  I  should  live  to  see  such  a  great  de- 
parture from  the  principles  and  testimonies  of  our  religious 
Society,  by  those  professing  the  name  of  Friends,  as  I  have 
seen  of  latter  years.  But  I  fully  believe  the  Most  High  God 
will  raise  up  others  to  take  the  places  of  those  amongst  us, 
who  are  the  backsliding  and  backslidden  sons  and  daughters, 
and  who  will  be  willing  to  suffer ;  yea,  they  will  rejoice  that 
they  are  accounted  worthy  to  suffer  for  the  very  principles 
and  testimonies,  that  many  under  our  name  are  trampling 
under  foot.  Yea,  the  time  will  come,  though  I  do  not  ex- 
pect to  live  to  see  it,  that  from  the  highways  and  hedge?, 
there  will  be  living  monuments  and  living  witnesses  brought 
into  the  garden  enclosed,  taking  the  places  and  the  crowns 
and  diadems  of  beauty  from  those  who  have  forsaken  their 


1861.]  ANN     BRANSON.  157 

first  love.  I  believe,  as  dear  Mildred  Ratcliffe  said  to  me, 
not  long  before  her  death,  "If  there  is  one  more  vial  of 
wrath  to  be  poured  out  upon  any  one  religious  Society  more 
than  another,  it  will  be  upon  the  Society  of  Friends,  or 
those  who  forsake  the  principles  and  testimonies  thereof." 

Oh,  Lord,  I  beseech  thee,  whatever  thou  mayest  permit 
me  to  suffer,  or  pass  through  for  thy  name's  sake,  preserve 
me  from  casting  away  my  confidence  in  thee,  or  becoming 
a  prey  to  the  wiles  of  Satan.  Amen. 

llth. —  My  soul  is  exceedingly  sorrowful.  Lord,  have 
mercy  upon  me. 

Fourth  Month  12th. — Returned  from  a  little  visit  within 
the  limits  of  Stillwater  Quarterly  Meeting.  Appointed  two 
meetings  amongst  those  not  in  membership  with  us,  and 
visited  several  families ;  also  attended  Ridge  Meeting  yester- 
day, but  for  not  minding  my  steps  on  the  way  home,  I  have 
had  to  suffer  much.  Whilst  out  on  this  visit,  on  passing 
through  a  little  village  near  Sunsbury,  coming  opposite  a 
blacksmith's  shop,  this  language  ran  through  my  mind :  "  Stop 
at  the  proper  point,"  and  it  seemed  required  of  me  to  stop  and 
go  in.  It  was  snowing  fast,  and  I  gave  way  to  reasoning,  and 
suffered  myself  to  go  on,  without  mentioning  the  subject  to 
my  companions  ;  but  before  we  got  far,  my  burden  increased 
so  much,  that  I  told  my  companions  how  it  was  with  me, 
and  that  I  had  a  great  load  upon  my  spirit.  They  proposed 
that  we  should  go  back,  which  we  did  in  the  evening.  After 
dining  at  J.  L's  we  had  a  religious  opportunity  with  the 
family.  Oh,  the  sorrow  and  distress  that  came  over  my 
spirit  on  account  of  some  of  the  children,  but  I  endeavored 
to  clear  myself,  and  leave  all  to  the  Master.  We  then  went 
to  the  blacksmith's  shop,  where  we  stopped  and  went  in ; 
saw  the  proprietor,  with  a  number  of  others,  who  collected 
in  when  they  heard  the  sound  of  my  voice ;  for  I  had  to 


158  JOURNAL     OF  [1861. 

declare  unto  them  the  Gospel  of  life  and  salvation,  exhort- 
ing them  not  to  spend  their  time  in  lightness,  irreverence 
and  forgetfulness  of  God.  I  had  considerable  to  communi- 
cate to  the  owner  of  the  shop  and  those  assembled,  both 
male  and  female.  Then  left  them  with  a  peaceful  mind, 
very  different  compared  with  my  feelings  when  I  passed  by 
this  place.  Oh !  what  can  be  compared  to  a  wounded  spirit ; 
but  being  blindfolded,  and  required  to  trust  wholly  to  the 
leadings  of  my  good  Master,  how  I  have  had  to  rejoice 
when  I  have  yielded  perfect  obedience  thereto.  But  not 
always  being  willing  enough  to  walk  by  faith,  my  heart  is 
pained  on  account  thereof,  and  I  fear  I  shall  never  become 
that  obedient  servant  that  the  Lord  would  have  me  to  be. 
Were  it  not  that  I  can  now  lift  up  my  eyes  upon  the  brazen 
serpent,  like  unto  the  children  of  Israel  in  the  wilderness, 
when  they  were  bitten  by  serpents,  I  should  sink  and  de- 
spair ;  or,  in  other  words,  hoping  on  the  mercy  of  God 
through  Christ  Jesus,  who  taketh  away  the  sin  of  the  world, 
I  am  kept  from  sinking  below  hope ;  for  the  enemy  hath 
injected  his  poison  and  induced  me  by  his  subtlety  to  re- 
turn home  before  the  Master  fully  liberated  me,  thus  spoil- 
ing my  peace,  and  causing  great  distress  of  mind.  And  I 
can  say,  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  me,  a  sinner;  encamp  round 
about  me,  and  keep  me  from  the  sin  of  omission  and  com- 
mission. 

30th. — My  mind  is  greatly  oppressed.  Oh  Lord,  under- 
take for  me,  and  show  me  if  it  be  thy  will  the  cause  of  my 
great  distress. 

Fifth  Month  5th. — Left  home  to  meet  with  the  boarding 
school  committee ;  also  with  a  prospect  of  visiting  the  meet- 
ings and  some  families  within  the  limits  of  Short  Creek 
Monthly  Meeting. 

6th. — Met  with  the  school  committee  at  Mt.  Pleasant ; 


1861.]  ANN    BRANSON.  159 

then  back  to  N.  Hall's  at  Harrisville,  and  feel  no  liberty  to 
return  home. 

7th. — Visited  two  inn-keepers  and  their  families,  in  the 
town  of  Harrisville ;  also  had  considerable  to  say  by  way 
of  counsel,  warning  and  encouragement,  in  the  bar-rooms 
at  both  places,  several  being  present,  warning  them  to  spend 
their  time  more  to  the  glory  of  God — to  forsake  the  foolish 
practices,  pastimes  and  sinful  pleasures  in  which  many  were 
engaged,  and  turn  unto  the  Lord.  Great  plainness  of  speech 
was  given  me  to  utter,  at  which  they  did  not  appear  to 
mock.  Visited  one  other  family  (not  members  with  us)  of 
some  note  in  the  town,  but  the  cup  is  very  bitter.  Lord, 
assist  me,  or  I  shall  utterly  fail  of  strength. 

10th. — Still  at  Harrisville.  Oh,  Lord !  be  pleased  to  look 
down  upon  me  with  compassionate  regard,  for  my  soul  is 
troubled.  Keep  me,  I  beseech  thee,  in  the  hollow  of  thy 
holy  hand,  for  my  sorrows  are  stirred  within  me.  May  I  be 
kept  faithful,  is  all  that  I  ask  of  my  God,  and  not  do,  or 
leave  undone,  anything  contrary  to  his  Divine  will.  Yester- 
day had  to  attend  their  week-day  meeting  at  this  place  with 
my  apron  on,  and  such  other  attire  as  the  Master  required  ; 
without  fixing,  fashion  or  finery.  I  said  in  my  heart,  Lord, 
if  thou  deal  thus  with  me,  it  were  better  for  me  to  die  than 
to  live ;  but  I  had  to  wash  and  anoint  rather  than  appear 
unto  men  to  fast.  I  feel  that  bonds  and  afflictions  abide 
with  me,  and  am  almost  constantly  reminded  of  the  bread 
which  Ezekiel  was  commended  to  bake,  and  partake  of  it. 
That  which  is  loathsome  to  myself  and  others  I  must  par- 
take of.  That  which  my  soul  refuseth  to  touch  has  become 
my  sorrowful  meat.  Oh,  that  I  may  so  dwell  that  nothing 
may  hinder  me  from  a  faithful  fulfilment  of  all  required  of 
me.  I  must  become  a  sign  to  others,  and  some  may  have  to 
remember  it,  when  my  head  is  laid  in  the  grave  ;  had  I 


160  JOURNAL    OF  [1861. 

known  what  would  have  been  required  of  me  before  I  came 
here,  I  know  not  that  I  should  have  had  strength  to  come ; 
but  my  bodily  health  is  better  than  when  I  left  home. 

14th. — Yesterday  my  mind  was  much  solemnized  in  the 
little  Select  Preparative  Meeting  here,  which  consists  of  only 
three  members,  two  having  recently  moved  away.  I  said 
in  my  heart,  Lord,  thou  hast  all  power,  and  can  break  the 
bonds  and  fetters,  and  can  cause  the  two-leaved  gates  to 
open  whenever  thou  wilt ;  be  pleased  to  keep  me  in  my 
proper  allotment,  and  my  soul  was  filled  with  a  song  of 
praise,  but  with  this  precaution :  "  Serve  the  Lord  with  fear 
and  rejoice  with  trembling."  Last  First-day,  the  12th,  and 
also  in  the  mid-week  meeting  (at  this  place),  I  had  some 
service  in  the  ministry,  in  some  degree  to  the  relief  of  my 
mind ;  yet  I  feel  that  the  watch  must  be  strictly  kept,  to 
accomplish  the  remainder  of  service,  which  may  be  allotted 
me  here,  to  the  honor  of  Truth. 

25th. — If  any  one  should  ever  see  these  lines,  let  me  en- 
courage such  to  trust  in  the  Lord.  Great  have  been  the 
conflicts  of  my  spirit,  insomuch  that  I  have  almost  despaired 
of  life.  But  God,  who  quickeneth  the  dead,  hath  kept  my 
head  above  the  waves  and  billows  hitherto — at  least  so  far 
as  not  to  permit  me  to  be  totally  overwhelmed.  I  am  still 
at  Harrisville,  but  think  the  way  will  ere  long  open  for 
removing  to  another  place.  I  have  to  pitch  my  tent  first 
in  one  place  and  then  in  another,  as  the  Master  appoints. 
May  I  never  become  a  prey  to  the  wiles  of  the  devil. 

Sixth  Month  4th. — I  am  now  at  Concord.  Have  been 
here  more  than  a  week,  and  have  attended  two  meetings  as 
they  came  in  course.  How  much  longer  I  may  have  to 
stay  I  cannot  tell.  Feel  to-day  exercised  in  mind  more  than 
since  I  came.  I  have  to  appear  as  a  fool  in  my  dress.  The 
children  are  looking  for  something  fine  and  fixed,  but  I 


1861.]  ANN    BRANSON.  161 

must  set  an  example  of  great  simplicity.  It  costs  me  much 
conflict  of  mind  to  be  for  a  sign  unto  others ;  more  than  I 
could  bear  if  the  Lord  did  not  support  me  in  it. 

22nd. — I  have  now  been  at  Concord  nearly  four  weeks, 
shut  up  a  close  prisoner  most  of  the  time,  not  knowing 
when  the  Master  will  give  me  the  word  of  command  to  de- 
part hence.  I  appointed  a  meeting  here  for  the  young 
people  and  children,  which  was  well  attended,  and  I  thought 
a  solid  meeting.  Also  attended  Short  Creek  Monthly  Meet- 
ing on  the  17th,  and  was  favored  with  Divine  strength  to 
declare  the  greatness  and  goodness  of  our  Saviour's  love  to 
those  who  serve  Him  faithfully,  and  how  He  causes  them 
to  triumph  over  all  their  spiritual  enemies,  and  to  become 
more  than  conquerors  through  Him  who  loved  them.  I 
trust  I  am  learning  the  lesson  of  patience  somewhat,  for  I 
have  felt  more  cheerful  and  composed  in  this  imprisonment 
than  I  once  thought  it  possible  for  me  to  be.  People  may 
think  that  as  I  have  no  family  to  care  for,  I  might  perhaps 
be  the  more  willing  to  pitch  my  tent  first  in  one  place  and 
then  in  another.  But  how  little  do  they  know  the  strokes 
it  has  taken,  to  make  me  able  to  say,  "  Not  as  I  will,  but 
as  thou  wilt."  Oh,  the  hurry  of  spirit  which  I  naturally 
possess  to  get  from  under  the  cross ;  it  has  to  be  with  me 
that  of  dying  daily ;  but  I  believe  we  may  attain  to  that 
state  wherein  every  thought  can  centre  in  this :  "  Not  as  I 
will,  O  Lord,  but  as  thou  wilt,"  and  this  is  a  work  of  the 
greatest  importance,  and  essentially  necessary  that  we  may 
become  heirs  of  the  kingdom  of  heaven. 

Harrisville,  Seventh  Month  19th. — The  Lord  hath  been 
graciously  pleased  to  help  me  through  many  straits  since  I 
left  home,  which  has  been  more  than  ten  weeks.  Little  did 
I  suppose,  when  I  attended  to  that  small  opening  which  led 
me  first  into  this  neighborhood,  that  I  should  have  been 


162  JOURNAL    OF  [1861. 

kept  so  long  in  the  verge  of  this  Monthly  Meeting.  How 
marvellous  are  the  ways  of  the  Almighty.  Man  cannot  find 
them  out  or  fathom  them  by  all  his  boasted  wisdom.  Lord, 
be  pleased  to  be  with  me,  and  make  me  willing  to  give  up 
and  surrender  my  life  and  my  all  into  thy  hands,  if  I  be- 
come a  by-word,  a  hissing  and  a  reproach  all  the  day  long 
in  the  mouth  of  gainsayers,  I  feel  that  thou  hast  many 
things  to  say  unto  me  which  I  am  not  yet  able  to  bear. 
Oh,  guide  and  guard  my  footsteps  in  this  critical  time — 
Yes,  this  critical  time. 

Seventh  Month  31st— Oh,  God  !  My  God!  Thou  hast 
brought  me  very  low.  Cause  me  not  to  stumble  upon  the 
dark  mountains,  which  rise  up  to  oppose  my  pathway ; 
Lord,  assist,  or  I  perish.  My  hope  is  in  thee,  the  Fountain 
of  light  and  life. 

Eighth  Month  1st. — It  is  now  more  than  twelve  weeks 
since  I  first  came  into  this  neighborhood  (Harrisville). 
Have  spent  five  weeks  at  Concord  and  two  at  the  boarding 
school ;  visiting  meetings  as  they  came  in  course  at  Concord ; 
the  school  at  Smithfield  and  Harrisville;  also  visited  all 
the  families  of  Friends  at  Smithfield  and  some  at  Harris- 
ville. None  but  the  Lord  knoweth  what  I  have  had  to  pass 
through  during  this  time.  To-day  had  to  go  as  one  who 
regarded  not  the  outward  appearance,  and  have  had  to  go 
into  families  and  meetings  in  such  attire  as  to  be  a  gazing 
stock  to  others.  I  have  said,  Lord,  if  thou  deal  thus  with 
me,  take  away  my  life  ;  and  He  has  answered  me  on  this 
wise:  "Have  I  not  as  yet  allowed  thee  decent  clothing? 
Thou  must  be  a  sign  against  the  pride  of  this  day  and  age, 
and  against  the  pride  of  this  people."  If  the  Lord  had  not 
sustained  me,  I  must  have  sunk  under  this  burden. 

Eighth  Month  14th.  —  Attended  the  funeral  of  Mary 
Thomas  at  West  Grove,  who  died  suddenly  of  apoplexy. 


1861.]  ANN     BRANSON.  163 

It  was  a  very  large  gathering ;  and  in  fear  and  trembling 
I  had  to  sound  the  warning  voice :  "  Be  ye  also  ready,  for 
at  such  a  time  as  ye  think  not,  the  Son  of  man  cometh." 
I  had  to  warn  the  proud  and  thoughtless  not  to  put  off 
their  day's  work  until  it  was  too  late.  The  same  day  re- 
turned to  Flushing,  after  an  absence  of  fourteen  weeks, 
with  the  feeling  of  an  unprofitable  servant ;  but  with  the 
belief  that  I  could  not  have  returned  sooner  without  a 
guilty  conscience,  which  I  have  not  felt  in  the  retrospect. 

15th. — Attended  our  Quarterly  Meeting  held  at  Flushing, 
which  was  larger  than  usual.  In  the  forepart  of  this  meeting, 
I  had  to  revive  the  language  of  the  Most  High  through  the 
mouth  of  his  prophet :  "  Blow  ye  the  trumpet  in  the  land. 
Cry,  gather  together  and  say,  Assemble  yourselves,  and  let 
us  go  into  the  defenced  cities.  Set  up  the  standard  toward 
Zion  ;  retire,  stay  not,  for  I  will  bring  evil  from  the  north, 
and  a  great  destruction.  The  lion  is  come  up  from  his 
thicket,  and  the  destroyer  of  the  Gentiles  is  on  his  way." 
Believing,  and  having  to  declare  that  the  Lord  would  mar 
the  pride  of  this  people  and  this  nation,  even  as  He  marred 
the  pride  of  Judah  and  Jerusalem  in  the  days  of  old,  which 
was  signified  and  foretold  by  the  prophet  Jeremiah,  when  he 
was  commanded  of  the  Lord  to  hide  the  linen  girdle  by  the 
river  Euphrates,  which,  when  he  took  again,  behold  it  was 
marred  ;  so  will  the  Lord  mar  the  pride  of  this  people  and 
this  nation,  and  the  language  to  many  is  in  this  day,  Re- 
turn, stay  not  upon  the  ground  you  occupy,  which  is  a  false 
resting-place ;  lift  up  the  standard  towards  Zion,  retire 
thither ;  there  wait  upon  the  Lord,  that  you  may  experience 
your  "  place  of  defence  to  be  the  munitions  of  rocks,  your 
bread  to  be  given  you  and  your  water  to  be  sure." 

18th. — First-day  morning,  I  felt  my  mind  greatly  oppressed 
and  distressed.  When  I  went  to  meeting,  the  burden  in- 


164  JOURNAL    OF  [1861. 

creased ;  and  I  had  to  proclaim  the  gospel  of  life  and  peace  to 
the  people,  declaring  against  the  unlawfulness  of  war  under 
the  Christian  dispensation,  feeling  that  there  were  some  in 
imminent  danger  of  being  drawn  away  and  taken  captive 
by  the  delusive  baits  of  the  enemy  on  the  subject  of  war ; 
and  warning  them  in  an  impressive  manner  to  flee  from 
the  snares  of  the  adversary.  In  the  afternoon  of  this  day,  I 
could  feel  no  peace  of  mind  without  going  to  see  a  young 
man  in  the  neighborhood,  who  I  believed  was  one  cause  of 
my  distress,  he  being  a  member  of  our  religious  Society. 
I  had  to  deal  very  plainly  with  him,  telling  him,  I  knew 
not  why  I  should  feel  thus  exercised  on  his  account,  but 
perhaps  he  could  tell :  I  told  him  that  I  believed  if  he  pur- 
sued the  course  he  was  designing,  that  the  cup  of  trembling 
would  be  taken  out  of  the  hands  of  those  who  were  afflicted 
for  him  and  given  to  him  to  drink,  and  he  would  have  to 
drink  the  very  dregs  thereof.  He  seemed  much  brought 
down  and  contrited  for  the  present,  weeping  freely ;  but  I 
had  little  hope  of  his  amendment,  but  felt  that  I  must  be 
clear  of  his  blood,  let  him  take  what  course  he  might. 
Next  morning  I  learned  that  he  had  the  evening  before  my 
visit  enlisted  as  a  soldier  in  the  army  ;  or  given  his  word 
that  he  would  serve  if  called  on.  After  this  he  was  in  great 
conflict  of  mind  at  times,  rather  giving  his  parents  and 
friends  to  hope  that  he  would  decline  his  intentions  to  serve 
as  a  soldier,  having  the  liberty  to  do  so  ;  but  alas !  the  thirst 
for  honor  and  military  fame  overcame  his  better  feelings 
and  judgment. 

Twelfth  Month  12th. — None  can  comprehend  the  deal- 
ings of  the  Lord  with  my  soul,  but  those  who  may  pass 
through  or  experience  similar  exercises.  Oh,  the  openings 
and  shuttings  which  are  my  attendants,  the  heights  and 
depths  through  which  He  leads  me,  the  tossings,  the  calm- 


1862.]  ANN     BRANSON.  165 

ings.  Truly  I  can  say  as  Job,  "  Thou  huntest  me  as  a  fierce 
lion;  and  again,  thou  showest  thyself  marvellous  upon  me." 
Sometimes  I  ain  tempted  to  despair,  and  again  I  see  his 
matchless,  marvellous  love  and  mercy;  so  that  I  can  say 
with  his  help,  deal  with  me  as  seemeth  unto  thee  good. 
Oh,  that  I  may  not  make  shipwreck  of  faith  and  a  good 
conscience,  is  the  earnest  travail  of  my  soul. 

First  Month  8th,  1862. — At  Guernsey,  to-day,  heard  of 
the  death  of  L.  M.,  the  young  man  before  alluded  to.  He 
had  joined  the  army  and  gone  into  Kentucky  with  other 
soldiers,  where  he  remained  some  weeks,  anxiously  looking 
towards  the  time  when  he  would  be  engaged  in  actual 
fighting,  as  he  signified  in  a  letter  which  he  wrote  home  to 
his  friends,  before  his  death.  But  He  who  holdeth  our  lives 
in  his  hand,  saw  meet  before  he  was  called  into  action,  or 
permitted  to  shed  the  blood  of  his  fellow-man,  to  cut  him 
off  with  typhoid  fever,  far  from  home,  and  it  is  to  be  feared 
without  a  sympathizing  friend  near  him.  A  day  or  two 
before  I  heard  of  his  death,  and  as  I  was  sitting  alone  in  a 
thoughtful,  serious  frame  of  mind,  this  language  sounded  in 
my  mental  ears:  "  L.  M.  is  dead ;"  and  it  then  presented  to 
my  mind  to  go  and  write  it  down  ;  but  as  I  was  about  to 
do  so,  a  reasoning  took  hold  of  my  mind,  and  I  thought  it 
might  only  be  imagination.  Oh,  how  I  have  been  exercised ' 
for  this  young  man  ;  but  now  the  conflict  is  over,  his  sen- 
tence sealed,  and  an  awful  warning  left  to  others  not  to  sin 
out  their  day  of  Grace.  Far,  very  far,  am  I  from  limiting 
the  Holy  One  of  Israel,  or  saying  that  it  is  impossible  that 
this  young  man  should  have  experienced  repentance  before 
he  was  taken  hence ;  but  very  certain  I  am  that  he  had 
some,  yes  many  loud  calls  and  warnings  before  he  finally 
gave  up  to  go  counter  to  all  his  friends'  advice,  and  stifle 
the  convictions  of  Truth  in  his  own  mind ;  so  as  to  join  in 


166  JOURNAL    OF  [1862. 

with  the  unchristian  practice  of  taking  the  life  of  our  fel- 
low creatures. 

12th. — Appointed  a  meeting  this  afternoon  at  Belmont. 
It  was  held  in  the  Methodist  Meeting-house,  but  the  day 
being  very  rainy,  it  was  small.  I  had  to  bring  things  close 
home  to  the  few  in  attendance,  but  what  I  had  to  say  ap- 
peared to  be  well  received,  and  it  was  a  solid  meeting. 

14th. — Had  a  meeting  at  Londonderry,  a  village  four 
miles  from  Guernsey.  It  was  well  attended,  and  considering 
the  number  of  light  and  frothy  spirits  present,  I  thought  it 
a  quiet  meeting.  Oh,  the  vanity  apparent  in  this  age ; 
surely  the  Lord  will  bring  judgment  home  to  the  hearts, 
and  upon  the  heads  of  many  who  are  now  soaring  in  pride 
and  wantonness.  It  may  be  too  late  to  lay  these  things  to 
heart,  when  the  stroke  of  death  comes. 

15th. — My  soul  is  very  sorrowful;  the  judgments  of  the 
Lord  are  in  the  land,  but  the  inhabitants  do  not  learn 
righteousness.  Oh  Lord !  thou  art  greatly  to  be  feared  ; 
but  who  doth  love,  fear,  and  serve  thee  as  they  ought.  My 
spirit  bows  and  craves  that  thy  all-sustaining  power  may 
continue  to  be  my  protection  in  this  time  of  deep  proving, 
when  all  terrestrial  things  fail  to  afford  support  to  the  mind 
of  a  poor  pilgrim,  where  so  much  wickedness  abounds. 

Help  me,  Oh  Lord,  for  vain  is  the  help  of  man.  Assist 
me,  or  I  sink  where  there  is  no  standing.  Prove  me,  and 
let  not  the  enemy  triumph  over  me.  Teach  me,  and  let  not 
my  candle  go  out,  or  my  candle-stick  be  removed  out  of  its 
place.  Gather  my  wandering  thoughts  and  centre  them 
upon  thee.  Stay  the  rolling  billows,  and  hush  the  furious 
storm  ;  and  speak  peace  to  the  raging  waves  of  this  troubled 
sea,  upon  which  this  bark  is  now  sailing.  Amen  and  amen. 
I  eat  but  little  pleasant  bread,  and  am  often  ready  to  faint 
by  the  way,  being  much  bowed  down  on  account  of  the  great 


1862.]  ANN     BRANSON.  167 

distress  in  the  land.  And  to  see  people  in  the  midst  of  war 
and  bloodshed,  so  light-hearted  and  vain,  as  many  are,  is 
distressing  in  the  extreme.  I  am  often  ready  to  say,  I  will 
speak  no  more  in  the  name  of  the  Lord.  But  then  his  word 
is  as  a  fire  shut  up  in  my  bones,  and  I  am  weary  with  with- 
holding. Then  the  language  of  my  heart  is,  Lord,  give  me 
strength  to  perform  thy  will ;  then  I  will  not  regard  what 
man  may  say  or  do.  Oh,  the  loving  kindness  of  the  Lord 
to  a  gainsaying,  rebellious,  backsliding  and  backslidden 
people.  My  soul  can  testify  to  his  goodness,  even  in  the 
depths  of  distress,  for  out  of  the  low  dungeon  hath  He  heard 
my  cry.  When  shut  up  and  enclosed  in  darkness,  the  Lord 
showed  me  his  marvellous  light,  for  none  other  could  have 
done  for  me  what  the  Lord  hath  done,  blessed  be  his  name. 
Whether  I  continue  faithful,  I  can  testify  that  the  Lord  is 
faithful  and  gracious  towards  all  who  look  to  Him  with  a 
single  eye  for  help.  Oh,  my  soul,  trust  in  Him,  come  what 
may,  life  or  death,  sickness  or  health,  and  never  cast  away 
thy  confidence  in  his  arm  of  power. 

24th. — To-day  was  held  our  Monthly  Meeting,  and  I  still 
feel  no  liberty  to  return  the  Minute  granted  me  more  than 
a  year  ago.  This  is  a  very  humiliating  path  to  walk  in  ; 
very  little  active  service  seems  required  of  me,  but  passive 
obedience  and  submission  to  the  will  of  the  Lord.  Often, 
of  late,  has  this  language  ran  through  my  mind — "The 
things  concerning  me  have  an  end."  Oh,  if  I  should  strive 
against  the  will  of  the  Almighty,  it  would  indeed  bring 
spiritual  death  and  perhaps  the  death  of  the  body  also. 
None  but  the  Lord  knows  the  secret  travail  of  my  soul,  at 
times  it  seems  as  if  it  would  waste  the  flesh  from  my  bones, 
and  nothing  can  give  me  ease  but  the  ability  to  say — "  Not 
as  I  will  but  as  thou  wilt,  oh  Lord."  In  the  forepart  of  the 
meeting,  to-day,  my  spirit  was  much  prostrated  in  fervent, 


168  JOURNAL    OF  [1862. 

silent  supplication  before  the  Lord,  at  which  time  my  cousin 
A.  B.  knelt  in  vocal  supplication,  and  I  thought  it  a  season 
of  some  favor,  as  the  Lord  gave  us  a  little  evidence  that  we 
were  not  forsaken. 

Second  Month  15th. — Visited  a  sick  man  and  his  family, 
with  whom  I  had  a  religious  opportunity,  both  in  counsel 
and  encouragement  to  the  sick,  and  those  in  health ;  and 
also  felt  it  right  to  address  the  Father  of  mercies  in  vocal 
supplication  on  their  behalf;  but  for  not  vocally  interceding 
on  behalf  of  the  aged  grandfather  of  the  family  then  present, 
I  have  felt  very  sorrowful  in  letting  this  opportunity  pass 
away  without  faithfully  doing  my  duty.  When  shall  I  learn 
perfect  obedience  to  the  will  of  God. 

19th. — This  is  the  week  of  our  Monthly  Meeting,  and  my 
mind  is  again  brought  into  exercise  about  returning  my 
Minute.  Oh,  thou  fountain  and  source  of  all  good,  look 
upon  me,  I  beseech  thee,  and  order  all  things  concerning 
me  to  thy  glory ;  then  will  I  not  be  afraid,  whatever  man 
may  say  or  do.  Amen. 

Father  of  light,  life,  grace  and  truth,  thou  who  seest  and 
knowest  the  hearts  of  all,  have  compassion  upon  me,  try  me 
and  prove  me,  and  let  not  my  gray  hairs  come  to  the  grave 
in  sorrow  on  account  of  unfaithfulness  to  thy  commands, 
however  hard  to  flesh  and  blood  it  may  be  to  obey.  Give 
me  strength,  I  beseech  thee,  then  will  I  not  be  afraid,  or  fear 
the  face  of  man,  though  they  scorn  or  scoff  at  the  words 
which  thou  givest  me  to  declare  unto  them.  Have  compas- 
sion upon  them,  oh  God,  who  scoff,  mock  and  deride;  that 
they  may  come  to  know  and  understand  what  it  is  to  live  in 
thy  fear  and  obey  thy  counsel  before  it  be  too  late.  Plead 
with  them  in  judgment,  mingled  with  mercy;  that  the  vial 
of  thy  wrath  may  never  be  poured  out  upon  them  unmingled 
with  mercy. 


1862.]  ANN     BRANSON.  169 


CHAPTER  VII. 

APPOINTMENT  OF  A  MEETING  AT  GEORGETOWN,  AND  OTHER  SERVICE  IN  THAT 
VICINITY — A  POINTED  TESTIMONY  AT  MlCAJAH  JOHNSON'S — BEGINNING  OF 
THE  CIVIL  WAR,  AND  HER  EXERCISES  CONCERNING  IT — EXERCISES  AND 
SERVICE  ABOUT  HARRISVILLE  AND  MT.  PLEASANT —  A  VISIT  TO  TWO 
DESPONDENT  PERSONS  AT  STILLWATER — AGAIN  VISITS  SALEM  AND  SPRING- 
FIELD MEETINGS — NEGLECTS  AN  APPREHENDED  DUTY  AT  THE  TOWN  OF 
BARNESVILLE — AN  ACKNOWLEDGMENT  AND  REGRET  OVER  OTHER  OMIS- 
SIONS— DEATH  OF  MICAJAH  JOHNSON — FREQUENT  SUFFERINGS  OF  SPIRIT 
ON  ACCOUNT  OF  THE  WAR — AGAIN  VISITS  SALEM  AND  SPRINGFIELD  QUAR- 
TERS AND  THEIR  BRANCHES. 

Third  Mouth  22nd. — I  have  just  returned  from  Guernsey, 
where  I  have  been  again  spending  some  weeks  attending 
meetings  there  as  they  came  in  course.  Oh,  the  bitterness 
of  that  portion  meted  out  to  me.  I  have  said  in  my  heart, 
when  will  I  learn  passive  obedience  and  submission  to  the 
Lord's  will,  and  glory  in  nothing  save  in  the  cross  of  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ.  Though  I  have  been  tempted  and  tried  in 
a  manner  I  never  anticipated,  yet  the  streams  of  Divine  con- 
solation Have  been  such,  that  I  have  no  language  to  set 
forth  the  mercy  of  God  to  my  soul  in  this  little  visit. 

The  Lord  laid  it  upon  me  to  attend  the  funeral  of  a  man, 
who  about  a  year  ago  refused  me  a  religious  opportunity  in 
his  family;  though  I  could  not  see  for  what;  but  when  the 
interment  was  over,  and  before  the  people  left  the  ground, 
I  was  moved  to  step  forward  near  the  grave,  and  proclaim 
this  language — The  strong  men  shall  bow  themselves — ex- 
horting, warning  and  inviting  those  present  to  prepare  for 
such  a  solemn  event.  I  had  not  much  to  say,  but  in  a  short 
testimony  for  the  Truth  I  felt  sweet  peace.  Several  oppor- 
tunities I  had  with  individuals,  greatly  to  the  relief  of  my 
mind ;  besides  opportunities  in  meetings  at  this  place  to  the 
12 


170  JOURNAL    OF  [1862. 

acknowledgment  of  the  power,  wisdom  and  goodness  of  God 
to  those  who  do  indeed  love  and  serve  Him. 

28th. — I  desire  nothing  so  much  as  a  preparation  to  serve 
the  Lord.  I  feel  that  I  have  no  time  to  do  my  own  will. 
I  believe  bonds  and  afflictions  abide  me  if  I  continue  faith- 
ful in  the  further  prosecution  of  this  visit.  Oh,  that  I  may 
not  be  permitted  to  shrink  from  any  suffering  needful  for 
me  to  endure,  in  filling  up  in  my  flesh  the  "  afflictions  of 
Christ  which  are  behind  for  his  body's  sake,  which  is  his 
Church." 

Fifth  Month  15th. — Attended  our  Quarterly  Meeting,  in 
which  I  had  considerable  to  say,  by  way  of  encouragement, 
to  the  low,  desponding  little  ones,  and  felt  peace  afterwards. 

17th. — Went  to  Harrisville  in  company  with  J.  and  R. 
Hobson,  in  order  to  attend  a  prospect  which  has  for  some 
time  rested  with  weight  on  my  mind  ;  that  of  appointing  a 
meeting  at  Georgetown,  a  small  village  about  three  miles 
from  Harrisville.  John  W.  Smith  and  Joseph  Hobson  went 
over  the  same  evening  and  made  arrangements  for  the  meet- 
ing, which  was  held  next  day  at  three  o'clock  p.  M.  It  was 
well  attended,  and  proved  a  relieving  time  to  my 'mind.  I 
had  to  speak  plain  truths  to  professors  and  profane,  begin- 
ning with  these  words — "There  is  no  peace  to  the  wicked, 
saith  my  God." 

Many  were  there  of  various  descriptions,  and  I  trust  the 
Truth  did  not  suffer.  Staid  all  night  with  cousin  Abraham 
Branson,  who  with  his  family  have  joined  with  the  Separ- 
atists (or  Gurneyites),  from  our  Yearly  Meeting  in  1854. 
They  were  very  kind.  In  the  morning,  after  a  religious 
opportunity,  he  and  his  wife  expressed  satisfaction  with  the 
visit ;  cousin  A.  saying  he  could  wish  I  might  oftener  visit 
them.  After  this  we  went  to  Micajah  Johnson's.  But  what 
shall  I  say  concerning  this  visit.  The  cup  given  me  to  drink, 


1862.]  ANN     BRANSON.  171 

both  before  and  after  going  to  this  house,  was  indeed  the  cup 
of  trembling.  The  Master  gave  the  word  of  command,  and 
bade  me  not  to  turn  to  the  right  hand,  or  the  left.  He  bade 
me  loose  the  strings  of  my  shoes  and  take  them  off  my  feet ; 
and  take  the  covering  off  my  head,  and  to  tell  Micajah 
Johnson  in  the  presence  of  his  wife,  that  so  the  Lord  would 
rend  every  covering  that  was  not  of  his  Holy  Spirit;  and 
take  away  the  false  resting  places ;  and  deal  with  us  accord- 
ing to  our  deserts;  that  there  was  no  hiding 'from  Him.  I 
was  not  deranged,  or  out  of  my  right  mind,  but  was  com- 
manded to  be  a  sign  unto  him.  The  door  of  mercy  was  still 
open,  and  the  hand  of  the  Lord  still  stretched  out  for  his 
recovery  from  all  that  had  let  and  hindered  him  from  com- 
ing into  the  obedience  required.  There  was  no  time  to  dally 
or  put  off  the  work  of  repentance,  and  amendment  of  life. 
Great  plainness  of  speech  and  Christian  boldness  was  given 
me  to  declare  the  whole  counsel  of  the  Lord  to  this  individual ; 
whether  he  will  hear  or  forbear. 

I  then  addressed  his  wife,  entreating  her  to  endeavor  to 
come  into  a  situation  comparable  to  that  of  the  Shunamite 
of  old ;  a  situation  in  which  she  could  intercede,  not  only  for 
•her  own  spiritual  life,  but  that  of  her  husband  and  children. 
Having  previously  addressed  their  two  daughters,  and  re- 
quested them  to  withdraw  before  I  said  anything  to  the 
parents,  I  now  found  I  must  make  some  efforts  to  see  their 
two  sons.  The  eldest  refused  to  give  us  his  company,  and 
the  younger  being  from  home,  was  sent  for,  and  came  pres- 
ently ;  to  whom  the  language  of  warning,  encouragement, 
and  entreaty,  to  live  soberly,  righteously  and  godly,  whilst 
the  Lord  was  pleased  to  continue  his  mercy  towards  him. 
My  mind  was  greatly  relieved  of  a  heavy  burden.  On 
taking  leave  of  this  family  the  father  requested  Joseph  Hob- 


172  JOURNAL   OF  [1862. 

son  to  inform  me  (I  being  very  dull  of  hearing)  that  he  was 
glad  of  the  visit. 

In  the  afternoon  of  the  same  day  I  went  to  see  Nathan 
Smith,  who  had  requested  his  son-in-law  to  let  me  know  that 
he  would  be  glad  to  see  me.  Some  years  ago,  as  this  Friend 
was  about  to  engage  in  marriage  with  an  individual  not  in 
membership  with  Friends,  I  used  great  plainness  of  speech 
to  him,  concerning  the  impropriety  and  sin  of  such  an  en- 
gagement. He  was  then  a  member  of  the  Meeting  for  Suffer- 
ings ;  had  a  large  family  of  children  ;  his  former  wife  having 
been  deceased  some  years.  Oh,  what  a  delusion  came  over 
him ;  and  notwithstanding  many  Friends  warned  and  coun- 
selled him  against  the  procedure,  yet  he  persisted  therein  ; 
but  now  he  seems  to  realize  in  some  measure  his  situation  ; 
and  seemed  willing  to  receive  whatever  might  be  in  store 
for  him  in  the  way  of  counsel  or  admonition.  I  had  to  re- 
mind him  of  the  brazen  serpent  which  Moses  lifted  up  in  the 
wilderness ;  when  those  who  were  bitten  by  serpents,  looked 
upon  it,  they  were  healed ;  which  was  a  type  of  the  Messiah. 
Christ  Jesus  is  He  who  can  heal  all  the  bites  and  wounds 
of  the  old  serpent  the  devil,  which  He  inflicts  upon  us  poor, 
frail,  finite  creatures.  I  had  to  encourage  him  to  look  to 
this  source  for  help,  even  unto  Him  who  is  the  healer  of 
breaches,  and  the  restorer  of  paths  to  walk  in.  Poor  man, 
he  seemed  very  glad  of  our  visit,  expressing  his  thankful- 
ness several  times  for  the  favor  granted.  His  wife,  step- 
daughter and  granddaughter  were  present. 

20th. — Attended  Short  Creek  Monthly  Meeting ;  was  si- 
lent in  the  forepart  but  had  a  word  of  encouragement  to  the 
destitute  and  afflicted  in  the  latter  part ;  returned  home  the 
same  evening. 

21st. — Attended  the  funeral  of  Maria  Hosier;  a  single 
woman  who  lived  alone ;  and  as  she  lived,  so  she  died,  with- 


1862.]  ANN    BRANSON.  173 

out  anyone  being  present,  though  a  Friend  was  in  an  ad- 
joining room.  Maria  being  desirous  to  be  left  alone  until 
a  certain  hour,  when  the  Friend  went  in  she  found  the  last 
struggle  was  over.  Great  silence  prevailed  whilst  we  were 
sitting  beside  the  corpse,  indicative,  as  I  thought,  of  a  happy 
release  from  the  shackles  of  mortality.  After  the  corpse 
was  interred,  I  had  a  short  testimony  to  deliver  to  the  vain, 
profligate  and  wondering  sons  and  daughters;  warning  them 
to  prepare  for  such  a  solemn  event,  when  dust  returns  to 
dust,  and  the  spirit  to  God  who  gave  it. 

28th. — I  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  Wrightstown,  or 
Belmont,  amongst  those  not  of  our  Society.  Divers  attended, 
more  than  the  house  could  hold.  It  was  held  in  the  town 
hall,  and  I  thought  it  a  favored  meeting  in  a  good  degree ; 
but  how  changed  am  I  now  ;  so  empty,  so  distressed,  so  for- 
saken, and  yet  hoping  against  hope,  nothing  to  trust  to  but 
the  mercy  of  God.  Oh,  the  war  and  bloodshed  which  is 
prevailing  in  this  land ;  it  is  so  grievous  to  my  feelings,  that 
I  can  hardly  retire  to  bed  when  the  hour  for  rest  comes ;  or 
eat  my  meals  with  any  comfort;  but  I  must  leave  it  with 
the  Lord  who  will  do  right. 

Eighth  Month  3rd. — Appointed  a  meeting  for  the  young 
people  and  children  in  our  neighborhood.  It  was  well  at- 
tended, and  the  Lord  gave  me  a  plain  testimony  to  deliver 
concerning  the  unlawfulness  of  war  under  the  gospel  dis- 
pensation. Divers  members  in  various  parts  of  our  religious 
Society  in  this  country  are  joining  the  army.  Oh  Lord, 
cause  the  sword  to  be  sheathed,  if  consistent  with  thy  will, 
saith  my  soul. 

Eighth  Month  13th. — Visited  William  Kirk,  who  is  mak- 
ing up  a  company  of  volunteers  for  the  army,  himself  to  be 
their  captain.  I  was  strengthened  to  cast  off  a  great  weight 
and  burden,  which  had  rested  on  my  mind  concerning  this 


174  JOURNAL    OF  [1862. 

individual,  and  another  whom  I  requested  to  give  us  his 
company.  William  being  a  member  of  the  Baptist  society, 
and  the  other  a  leading  Methodist.  I  sought  to  deliver  the 
whole  counsel  of  God  to  these  individuals,  and  kept  nothing 
back  which  He  gave  me  to  utter.  I  used  great  plainness  of 
speech  in  regard  to  the  inconsistency  of  war  with  the  gospel 
dispensation ;  yet  no  offence  was  taken.  I  told  them  that 
I  knew,  there  was  a  law  recently  made  to  imprison  any  one, 
who  by  word  or  action  should  discourage 'any  from  volun- 
teering ;  yet  I  regarded  the  law  of  the  Lord  more  than  the 
law  of  man ;  and  paramount  to  the  laws  of  the  land.  I  re- 
quested and  warned  William  not  to  violate  his  conscientious 
scruples,  nor  press  others  to  do  so :  that  he  would  be  held 
accountable,  as  those  concerning  whom  it  was  said,  "  Woe 
unto  him  who  striveth  with  his  Maker !  Let  the  potsherd 
strive  with  the  potsherds  of  the  earth."  After  supplicating 
the  throne  of  Grace  on  their  behalf,  I  left  them  with  a 
thankful  heart  for  having  given  up  to  this  requirement  of 
our  Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ,  who  said,  "my  kingdom 
is  not  of  this  world,  else  would  my  servants  fight."  On  bid- 
ding William  Kirk  farewell,  he  expressed  his  thankfulness 
for  the  visit,  saying,  it  was  well  timed. 

14th. — Greatly  bowed  down  and  oppressed  day  after  day 
Lord  have  mercy  upon  me,  and  keep  me  from  the  wiles  of 
the  devil  who  is  trying  to  upset  my  faith  and  hope  in  thee, 
the  sovereign  Ruler  of  the  universe. 

15th. — Yesterday  was  our  Quarterly  Meeting.  In  the 
women's  meeting  I  had  to  deal  plainly  with  those  who  were 
indulging  in  the  vain  fashions  of  the  world.  That  the  Lord's 
judgments  were  not  slumbering;  but  would  come  upon  us 
for  our  manifold  sins  and  transgressions.  That  it  would  be 
well  for  those  who  experience  judgment  laid  to  the  line  and 
righteousness  to  the  plumbline  in  the  temple  of  their  hearts, 


1862.]  ANN    BRANSON.  175 

to  break  down  their  stubborn  wills;  for  when  judgment 
comes  without  mercy  then  it  will  be  too  late  for  repentance 
and  amendment  of  our  ways  and  doings.  I  had,  also,  at 
this  time  to  tell  Friends  that  there  was  a  specific  and  cer- 
tain remedy  for  sleeping  in  meeting,  and  those  who  wrestled 
aright  for  the  blessing  would  be  favored  to  overcome,  and 
be  made  more  than  conquerors  through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord  and  Saviour. 

21st. — To-day  was  our  Morithly  Meeting  held  at  Guern- 
sey. We  went  down  and  returned  the  same  day.  Shall  I 
ever  forget  our  morning  ride.  It  was  the  day  appointed 
for  a  company  of  volunteers  to  meet  at  Belmont  Ridge,  and 
from  thence  proceed  south  to  the  martial  field.  Oh,  that 
men  were  wise  with  that  wisdom  which  they  so  highly  pro- 
fess, even  the  Christian  religion,  which  would,  if  people  were 
really  in  possession  thereof,  put  an  end  to  all  war  and  fight- 
ing with  carnal  weapons.  The  Lord's  name  be  praised  that 
there  are  still  left  in  Christendom  those  who  cannot  fight  for 
any  earthly  consideration.  Many  young  men,  not  yet  ar- 
rived to  the  age  of  twenty-one,  were  in  this  company;  some 
with  downcast  and  sorrowful  countenances ;  weeping  moth- 
ers accompanying  their  sons — wives  their  husbands,  and  sis- 
ters their  brothers,  to  some  parting  spot,  never  again,  per- 
haps, to  meet  in  mutability.  After  witnessing  this  sight, 
I  felt  the  testimony  very  precious,  that  was  given  Friends 
to  bear  against  all  war  and  military  performances ;  and  I 
felt  it  right  to  encourage  Friends  to  maintain  this  testimony 
faithfully,  even  if  it  be  to  imprisonment,  and  death. 

31st. — Attended  the  funeral  of  S.  C.,  who  died  of  a  short 
illness,  leaving  a  wife  and  three  small  children.  It  was  very 
large,  being  on  First-day  afternoon.  I  was  exercised  at  the 
graveyard,  in  warning  the  people  to  work  while  it  is  day ; 
to  "  walk  in  the  light,  whilst  they  have  the  light."  I  was 


176  JOURNAL    OF  [1862. 

much  concerned,  and  exercised  for  those  who  are  lukewarm 
and  careless,  putting  off  their  day's  work  till  a  more  con- 
venient season.  I  had  been  quite  ill  several  days  previous ; 
and  felt  scarcely  able  to  attend,  but  the  Lord  strengthened 
me  both  in  body  and  mind,  to  deliver  a  warning  and  exhor- 
tation to  the  people  on  this  occasion. 

Ninth  Month  14th. — Oh,  the  war !  When  will  it  please 
the  Almighty  to  cause  this  grievous  calamity  to  cease?  I 
often  feel  (comparatively  speaking)  as  if  I  were  on  the  bat- 
tle-field, witnessing  the  great  perils  to  which  the  poor  sol- 
diers are  subjected,  and  the  sufferings  of  the  wounded  and 
dying.  It  seems  to  me,  that  I  could  not  have  endured  the 
agony  of  mind  this  war  has  occasioned  me,  especially  at 
times,  when  great  slaughter  has  been  going  on  (having  a 
sense  of  it),  if  the  Lord  did  not  sustain  me  in  and  under  it. 
On  the  day  of  the  first  great  struggle  at  Bull  Run,  as  I  was 
riding  along  the  road  with  some  Friends  ;  I  felt  an  intima- 
tion that  the  great  slaughter  was  going  on  ;  and  might  have 
mentioned  it  to  the  Friends,  but  forbore ;  so  also  at  other 
times.  Wonderful  it  is  what  has  been  permitted  to  befall  us, 
and  still  we  are  not  humbled. 

Tenth  Month  20th. — Lord,  thou  knowest  the  depths  of 
distress  that  have  come  upon  me,  for  the  further  trial  of  my 
faith,  and  the  purification  of  my  heart ;  I  beseech  thee  to 
preserve  me  in  patience,  or  I  sink  below  hope.  The  fiery 
trials  which  are  to  try  me  are  in  thy  hands,  and  into  thy 
hands  I  commit  body,  soul  and  spirit.  Amen. 

On  the  19th,  appointed  a  Meeting  for  Worship,  about 
five  miles  from  home,  amongst  the  Presbyterians.  It  was  a 
laborious  time,  because  of  a  feeling  of  opposition  to  the  doc- 
trines advanced,  but  the  people  were  generally  sober  and 
well  behaved. 

Eleventh  Month  27th. — At  Harrisville.   The  exercises  of 


1862.]  ANN     BRANSON.  177 

my  mind  are  greater  than  I  well  know  how  to  bear.  Oh, 
Lord  !  strengthen  me  to  endure,  for  my  soul  is  sore  broken 
within  me :  my  soul  lies  prostrate  before  thee,  and  my  spirit 
craves  that  thou  wilt  not  suffer  me,  like  Esau,  to  sell  my 
birthright  for  a  mess  of  pottage.  Oh !  how  hast  thou  dealt 
with  me,  causing  me  to  become  a  spectacle  to  the  world,  to 
angels,  and  to  men.  All  that  I  now  ask,  all  that  I  now 
crave,  is,  that  thou  wilt  not  let  me  become  a  prey  to  the 
Adversary,  whatever  else  comes  upon  me.  This  day  two 
weeks  ago,  being  the  time  of  our  Quarterly  Meeting  held  at 
this  place,  I  believed  it  right  to  remain,  and  here  I  have 
been  most  of  the  time  since,  at  W.  H's.  When  it  may  please 
the  Lord  to  change  this  dispensation  I  know  not ;  but  I  do 
pray  for  strength  to  continue  steadfast  unto  the  end. 

29th. — I  have  said  in  my  heart,  surely  I  shall  be  swal- 
lowed up  in  my  distress ;  greater  trials  and  distress  may  yet 
come  upon  me.  The  Lord  only  knows  the  end  from  the 
beginning. 

Twelfth  Month  9th. — Oh,  thou  God  of  my  life,  preserve 
me,  I  beseech  thee,  that  I  may  do  no  harm  on  the  right 
hand  or  the  left.  Thou  hast  laid  a  great  work  upon  me, 
suffer  me  not,  I  entreat  thee,  to  fall  a  prey  to  the  Adversary 
of  my  soul's  peace. 

17th. — It  has  been  five  weeks  to-day  since  I  came  into 
this  neighborhood,  most  of  the  time  a  close  prisoner ;  except 
attending  meetings  as  they  come  in  course.  The  Lord 
knows  the  exercise  of  faith  and  patience  it  requires  thus  to 
be  shut  up,  not  seeing  the  ground  thereof,  save  to  know  that 
it  is  from  Him  who  maketh  the  morning  darkness  and  tread- 
eth  upon  the  high  places  of  the  earth,  and  declareth  unto 
man  what  is  his  thought.  The  Lord  of  hosts  is  his  name. 
I  have  visited  six  families  in  this  neighborhood ;  three  at 
Mount  Pleasant,  and  a  school  taught  by  George  K.  Jenkins; 


178  JOURNAL    OF  [1862. 

besides,  I  have  had  very  close  exercise,  and  labor  with  some 
individuals.  I  have  sometimes  of  late  thought  that  I  was 
learning  this  lesson  by  the  hardest,  viz :  that  of  being  con- 
tent in  the  situation  the  Lord  appoints  for  me.  But  pretty 
soon  I  find  some  root  of  discontent  and  dislike  springing  up 
in  me,  which  causes  me  to  remember  the  language  of  the 
Apostle — "If  any  man  think  that  he  knoweth  anything,  he 
knoweth  nothing  yet  as  he  ought  to  know."  I  have  thought 
too,  of  latter  time,  that  I  knew  what  it  was  in  some  degree 
to  rejoice  in  tribulation, "  knowing  that  tribulation  worketh 
patience,  and  patience  experience,  and  experience  hope. 
And  hope  maketh  not  ashamed ;  because  the  love  of  God  is 
shed  abroad  in  our  hearts  by  the  Holy  Ghost  which  is  given 
unto  us."  May  I  learn  perfect  obedience  by  the  things  that 
I  suffer. 

19th. — Yesterday,  in  the  Preparative  Meeting  at  this  place, 
I  had  close  things  to  communicate  to  some  present,  hard  to 
be  uttered.  Several  times  since  being  here  at  this  time,  I 
have  had  very  close  work  in  this  meeting ;  also  with  several 
individuals ;  so  much  so,  that  if  the  Lord  had  not  sustained 
me  and  held  me  up,  I  had  not  had  strength  to  have  gone  on, 
but  must  have  fainted  by  the  way.  Thou  knowest,  oh  Lord, 
the  integrity  of  my  heart,  and  my  desire  to  serve  thee  only 
and  alone ;  be  pleased  to  be  with  me  the  remainder  of  my 
days,  and  then  lead  where  thou  wilt,  only  strengthen  me  to 
follow  in  the  regeneration. 

21st. — Oh,  Lord !  thou  hast  been  very  gracious  unto  my 
soul.  I  will  praise  thee  with  my  whole  heart,  for  thou  hast 
given  me  the  gates  of  mine  enemies.  I  cried  unto  thee  with 
my  whole  heart,  and  thou  looked  upon  my  affliction.  May 
I  never  distrust  thy  power,  for  thou  makest  darkness  thy 
pavilion,  and  treadest  upon  the  high  places  of  the  earth : 
whichever  way  I  turn  thou  meetest  me  with  thy  flaming 


1862.]  ANN     BRANSON.  179 

sword  to  slay  that  within  me  that  thy  righteous  controversy 
is  with.  Blessed,  praised  and  magnified  be  thy  name  for- 
ever, and  let  all  the  world  say  amen. 

22nd. — "He  took  me,  He  drew  me  out  of  many  waters." 
This  language,  with  a  song  of  praise,  so  filled  my  heart  last 
evening,  that  I  thought  the  Lord  was  very  near  me  with  his 
goodness  and  mercy.  He  hath  wrought  deliverance  for  me 
when  the  waves  of  affliction  were  ready  to  engulf,  and  the 
artifices  of  the  deceiver  of  mankind  strong  and  very  subtle 
to  lay  waste  my  faith  ;  so  that,  had  I  not  cried  with  my 
whole  heart  unto  the  Lord,  I  should  surely  have  been  swal- 
lowed up. 

23rd. — When  I  said  I  shall  be  swallowed  up,  then,  oh 
Lord,  thou  didst  strengthen  my  soul ;  when  the  gates  of 
brass,  and  the  bars  of  iron,  were  round  about  me,  seeming 
immovable  forever ;  then  thou  bade  me  trust  in  thee,  so 
that  a  bow  of  steel  hath  been  broken  by  my  arm.  Blessed 
and  praised  be  thy  name  forever  and  forever  more. 

This  day  attended  Short  Creek  Monthly  Meeting,  in  which 
very  hard  things  were  given  me  to  deliver ;  but  strength 
was  given  for  the  emergency,  and  very  peaceful  has  been 
the  retrospect  concerning  the  testimony  delivered  in  that 
meeting :  I  had  to  revive  the  words  of  the  prophet  Ezekiel 
contained  in  the  twelfth  chapter,  when  he  was  set  for  a  sign 
to  the  rebellious  house  of  Israel.  He  was  commanded  to 
prepare  his  stuff  for  removing,  and  remove  by  day  in  their 
sight,  carrying  his  burden  upon  his  own  shoulders,  and  cov- 
ering his  face  that  he  should  not  see  the  ground.  He  was 
also  to  dig  through  with  his  hand,  and  carry  out  his  stuff 
thereby ;  as  those  who  go  into  captivity ;  and  he  did  as  the 
Lord  commanded  him.  In  the  morning  the  word  of  the 
Lord  came  unto  him,  showing  him  what  these  things  meant, 
and  bidding  him  declare  it  unto  the  rebellious  house. 


180  JOURNAL    OF  [1862. 

I  told  Friends  that  I  had  been  held  captive  amongst  them 
week  after  week,  whilst  my  face  had  been  covered,  that  I 
had  not  seen  the  ground,  or  cause  of  my  tarriance,  or  exer- 
cises ;  that  I  had  to  bear  my  own  burdens,  and  dig  through 
a  wall  of  opposition  in  order  to  walk  in  the  obedience  of 
faith ;  but  now  I  believed  it  right  for  me  to  tell  them,  that 
it  had  appeared  to  me  that  I  was  set  for  a  sign  amongst 
them.  Many  no  doubt  querying,  What  doest  thou  ?  Why 
tarriest  thou  so  long  amongst  us  ?  What  good  can  such  a 
strange  and  unaccountable  act  as  that  of  keeping  thy  Min- 
ute so  long,  do  ?  But  now  it  was  for  me  to  tell  them,  that 
unless  there  was  a  deepening  in  the  root  of  life  and  speedily 
turning  unto  the  Lord,  they  would  go  into  captivity,  even 
the  princes  of  the  people,  and  die  there,  though  they  should 
see  it,  or  know  it.  That  this  vision  concerneth  the  princes 
of  Jerusalem,  and  all  the  house  of  Israel  that  are  with  them. 
Sampson  was  a  strong  man,  a  judge  in  Israel,  but  through 
the  importunity  of  Delilah,  he  was  shorn  of  his  strength, 
and  those  who  were  in  any  way  compromising  our  precious 
testimony  against  war  were  in  danger  of  being  shorn  of  their 
strength,  and  those  who  could  pay  a  bounty  tax  to  induce 
volunteers  to  join  the  army,  had  already  some  of  their  seven 
locks  taken  off.  I  knew  of  none  in  that  meeting  that  had 
done  so,  but  if  there  were  any,  they  were  in  a  dangerous 
situation.  Much  more  I  had  to  say  in  the  way  of  warning, 
counsel  and  encouragement,  to  turn  with  the  whole  heart 
unto  the  Lord. 

24th. — Received  a  few  lines  this  morning  from  a  leading 
Friend  of  this  meeting,  saying,  that  he  believed  my  commu- 
nication yesterday  towards  the  close  of  their  Monthly  Meet- 
ing, was  in  the  authority  of  Truth,  and  partly,  if  not  alto- 
gether for  himself.  That  he  had  been  drawn  into  a  snare  to 
pay  the  bounty  tax,  not  only  for  himself,  but  for  several  of 


1862.]  ANN    BRANSON.  181 

his  friends ;  that  no  act  of  his  life  had  given  him  so  much 
uneasiness,  though  it  was  altogether  unintentional,  when  he 
went  to  pay  his  common  tax,  to  pay  the  bounty ;  yet  for  want 
of  making  proper  investigation  into  the  matter,  and  not 
properly  keeping  the  watch,  he  had  been  drawn  into  the 
snare,  and  balked  that  precious  testimony,  which  he  ought 
to  have  been  the  first,  or  amongst  the  first,  to  have  supported. 
Friends  have  now  in  the  limits  of  that  Monthly  Meeting, 
with  one  exception,  paid  the  bounty  tax  upon  whom  it  was 
levied ;  several  not  living  in  that  county  (Jefferson)  of  course 
not  included  in  the  number,  or  implicated  in  this  breach  of 
our  Christian  testimony ;  but  some,  and  I  believe  most,  con- 
sider it  better  to  pay,  than  suffer,  or  contend.  Oh,  what  a 
breach !  Though  several  Friends,  for  whom  the  tax  had  been 
paid,  as  before  stated,  were  very  much  tried  and  distressed 
therewith.  May  the  Lord  heal  the  wounds  that  have  through 
unwatchfulness  been  made. 

28th. — Again  attended  Harrisville  Meeting.  It  is  now 
nearly  seven  weeks  since  I  came  to  this  place,  and  still  I 
find  no  liberty  as  yet  to  leave  it.  My  mind  was  exercised 
in  meeting  to-day;  and  a  prayer  begotten  to  the  Lord, 
though  not  vocally  uttered— that  if  any  of  the  dear  children 
had  a  testimony  for  Him,  that  He  would  bring  them  forth. 
Whilst  my  mind  was  thus  exercised,  a  dear  lamb  (for  so  I 
may  call  her,  though  she  is  the  mother  of  a  family),  stood 
up  and  expressed  this  passage  of  Scripture :  "  If  the  right- 
eous scarcely  be  saved,  where  shall  the  ungodly  and  sinner 
appear?" 

Last  First-day  also,  my  mind  was  much  exercised  in  this 
meeting,  believing,  that  a  youngish  Friend  had  something 
on  her  mind  to  deliver.  I  wrestled  for  her  deliverance  in 
secret  prayer  to  God ;  at  last  these  words  were  required  of 
me  to  utter,  without  any  addition — "  There  is  that  scattereth 


182  JOURNAL    OF  [1863. 

and  yet  increaseth  ;  and  there  is  that  withholdeth  more  than 
is  meet,  but  it  tendeth  to  poverty."  After  which  the  Friend 
arose  and  repeated  this  passage  from  Job — "  How  often  is 
the  candle  of  the  wicked  put  out,  and  how  oft  destruction 
cometh  suddenly  upon  them."  After  this  my  mind  felt  easy 
and  a  song  of  praise  filled  my  heart. 

The  Lord  only  knows  how  my  heart  is  exercised  before 
Him  daily  and  hourly,  that  I  may  in  no  wise  balk  any  of 
the  precious  testimonies  given  us  as  a  people  to  bear,  nor 
stumble  any  of  the  children  in  my  tarriance  here.  Dearest 
Father!  thou  knowest  my  prayers  by  day  and  by  night. 
Oh !  let  me  not  faint,  nor  give  out,  nor  stay  one  hour  longer 
here  than  it  is  thy  holy  will  I  should. 

31st. — Yesterday  visited  a  district  school,  and  the  day 
previous  had  very  close  things  to  deal  out  to  a  dear  Friend. 
It  was  like  parting  with  my  right  hand,  to  clear  myself  to- 
wards this  Friend  in  the  way  of  caution,  warning  and  some 
censure,  for  having,  as  I  believed,  departed  in  some  degree 
from  the  pure  Truth.  It  is  for  peace  of  mind,  I  feel  con- 
strained to  labor  for  and  with  others.  When  will  I  know 
an  overcoming  of  the  enemies  of  my  own  household. 

First  Month  1st,  1863. — The  cup  given  me  to  drink  has 
been  very  bitter,  and  the  burden  heavy  upon  my  shoulders, 
which  I  have  had  to  bear  alone,  that  is  almost  without  hu- 
man help,  or  consolation.  I  have  feared  I  shall  get  into  a 
murmuring  disposition.  Oh  Lord,  help  me,  for  thou  only 
and  alone  canst  ease  me  of  my  burden,  and  enable  me  pa- 
tiently to  bear  it  all  the  days  of  my  appointed  time. 

3rd. — Last  evening  my  mind  was  so  impressed  with  the 
horrors  of  war,  that  I  felt  almost  constrained  to  request  a 
Friend,  who  was  reading  aloud  (though  in  an  interesting 
and  instructive  book),  to  forbear.  It  seemed  to  me  that  all 
the  distress  and  agony  of  the  battle-field  was  before  me. 


1863.]  ANN    BRANSON.  183 

When  will  the  remainder  of  wrath  be  restrained  ?  When 
will  the  sword  be  sheathed  ? 

Since  writing  the  above,  a  Friend  informed  me,  that  ac- 
cording to  my  request,  a  Meeting  for  Worship  has  been  ap- 
pointed, about  two  miles  off,  amongst  the  Presbyterians,  to 
be  held  to-morrow  at  eleven  o'clock.  I  am  exercised  almost 
to  trembling,  but  I  fear  I  think  more  about  the  poor  crea- 
ture who  has  requested  this  meeting  appointed,  than  the 
glory  of  the  Creator.  When  will  I  learn  perfect  resignation 
to  the  will  of  the  Lord  ?  The  same  Friend  gave  me  a  word 
of  encouragement,  unexpectedly  to  myself,  but  not  unneces- 
sarily. Oh  Lord,  help  me,  or  I  shall  faint  by  the  way  ;  give 
me  strength  to  do  or  to  suffer  according  to  thy  holy  will;  so 
shall  thy  name  and  praise  be  exalted.  Amen. 

4th. — Went  at  the  time  appointed  to  the  meeting.  It  was 
well  attended,  and  ended  solidly.  The  Lord's  name  be 
praised  for  the  help  afforded.  May  faithfulness  be  the  gir- 
dle of  my  reins,  and  righteousness  the  girdle  of  my  loins, 
sayeth  my  soul. 

5th. — Left  Harrisville,  where  I  have  spent  at  this  time 
nearly  eight  weeks;  making  my  home  at  William  Hall's; 
where  I  have  been  kindly  treated  both  by  parents  and  chil- 
dren. The  dear  little  children !  May  the  Lord  bless  them, 
together  with  their  parents,  hath  been  the  prayer  of  my 
heart  for  them.  But  what  strokes  it  takes  to  bring  our  wills 
into  subjection  to  the  will  of  the  Lord.  May  his  hand  not 
spare,  nor  his  eye  pity,  until  this  be  accomplished  in  us  all, 
sayeth  my  soul. 

The  same  day  went  to  the  Boarding  School  to  meet  with 
the  committee  having  charge  of  this  Institution ;  having  also 
a  prospect  of  visiting  some  families  in  the  limits  of  Mount 
Pleasant  Meeting.  But  on  my  way  thither,  felt  that  some- 
thing crossed  my  path,  and  turned  me  another  way.  After 


184  JOURNAL    OF  [1863. 

getting  there,  I  was  informed  of  two  individuals,  members 
of  Stillwater  Quarterly  Meeting,  who  were  in  a  desponding 
state  of  mind.  Immediately  a  great  exercise  came  upon  me, 
and  such  a  weight  of  concern,  and  sympathy  for  them,  that 
I  could  neither  eat  nor  sleep  with  any  comfort,  until  I  gave 
up  to  go  and  see  them.  And  in  company  with  N.  H.  and 
E.  S.,  on  the  morning  of  the  7th,  I  got  up  at  two  o'clock 
(the  weather  being  very  cold),  rode  ten  miles  before  day  ; 
then  took  the  cars,  and  arrived  at  Barnesville  about  eight 
o'clock.  Went  to  their  Week-day  Meeting ;  and  after  meet- 
ing, went  to  see  B.  H.,  a  desponding  young  man.  Had  a 
religious  opportunity  with  him,  and  the  rest  of  the  family. 
I  told  him  my  Master  had  sent  me  to  tell  him  that  he  had 
no  need  to  despair ;  he  had  committed  no  unpardonable  sin  ; 
that  the  Lord  in  his  mercy  was  round  about  him  to  do  him 
good,  willing  to  remove  the  weight  and  pressure  which  so 
mightily  weighed  him  down ;  and  much  more  of  an  en- 
couraging nature.  After  vocal  supplication  on  his  behalf, 
I  left  his  room. 

Before  we  left,  he  requested  his  mother  to  ask  me  into  his 
room  again.  He  then  asked  several  questions,  such  as  these, 
viz  :  If  I  was  ever  tempted  to  believe  that  I  had  committed 
an  unpardonable  sin  ?  Whether  I  thought  it  right  to  take 
medicine,  when  nothing  was  the  matter  with  the  body  ? 
Thought  his  trust  ought  to  be  in  the  Lord  ;  that  it  was  his 
mind  only  that  was  affected.  He  further  said  that  he  thought 
he  had  treated  my  advice  some  years  before  with  contempt. 
I  assured  him  that  I  did  not  remember  his  having  treated 
my  advice  in  that  way.  He  then  asked  me  if  I  had  received 
a  letter  from  him  a  few  days  previous  to  my  visit  ?  I  told 
him  no !  I  had  received  none.  At  which  his  countenance 
brightened  up,  and  he  replied,  "  That  is  the  greatest  word 


1863.]  ANN    BRANSON.  185 

of  comfort  I  have  had ;  that  thou  came  to  see  me  because 
thou  felt  as  if  thou  must." 

We  went  to  see  the  other  individual,  a  female  Friend ; 
who  had  passed  the  most  of  that  day  in  extreme  agony  of 
mind ;  bewailing  her  condition  in  a  deplorable  manner.  On 
being  told  that  some  Friends  were  there  who  would  like  to 
see  her;  she  at  first  thought  she  could  not  see  us;  but  after 
a  little  while  she  concluded  we  must  come  into  her  room. 
My  mind  was  led  into  great  sympathy  for  her ;  and  a  word 
of  encouragement  and  counsel  was  put  into  my  mouth  for 
her ;  and  vocal  supplication  to  the  throne  of  Grace  offered 
on  her  behalf.  She  sat  perfectly  composed  all  the  time  we 
were  in  her  room ;  and  after  we  left,  said  to  the  Friend  who 
attended  her,  in  allusion  to  this  visit — "  This  may  be  as  bread 
cast  on  the  waters,  found  after  many  days." 

After  this  I  returned  to  the  Boarding  School,  where  I 
spent  six  weeks;  most  of  the  time  under  much  exercise  of 
mind.  Left  the  Boarding  School  and  returned  to  Flushing, 
after  an  absence  of  three  months.  The  same  day  attended 
our  Select  Quarterly  Meeting,  and  on  the  day  following,  the 
Quarterly  Meeting,  in  the  forepart  of  which  I  had  to  allude 
to  the  circumstance  recorded  in  Scripture,  of  a  man  who  was 
felling  a  beam,  and  the  axe-head  fell  into  the  water,  and  he 
cried  and  said,  "Alas,  master!  for  it  was  borrowed."  It 
seemed  to  me  there  was  instruction  in  this  for  those  who  felt 
that  they  had  lost  the  little  capacity  they  once  had  to  labor 
for  themselves  and  others ;  and  not  only  so,  but  were  respon- 
sible for  that  over  which,  they  now  felt,  that  they  had  no 
control ;  but  seeing  a  miracle  was  wrought  for  this  poor  man 
by  the  prophet,  in  making  the  axe  to  swim,  and  bade  him 
put  out  his  hand  and  take  it.  And  the  great  and  good 
Prophet,  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  is  near  unto  all  who  cry 
unto  Him  out  of  a  pure  heart ;  and  it  is  an  unspeakable 
13 


186  JOURNAL    OF  [1863. 

blessing  that  this  cry  and  petition  is  put  into  the  heart — 
Alas,  Master !  as  if  to  say,  if  I  receive  no  help  from  thee,  I 
am  undone.  Oh,  He  will  work  for  all  those  whose  hearts 
are  turned  unto  Him  for  help  in  the  right  way,  and  cause 
them  to  sing  for  joy,  and  the  praise  and  honor  will  be  given 
unto  Him  to  whom  it  is  due. 

Fourth  Month  23rd. — Returned  the  Minute  to  the  Monthly 
Meeting  which  was  granted  me  more  than  two  years  ago, 
during  which  time  I  have  been  engaged  in  visiting  families, 
meetings  and  individuals,  as  way  opened,  to  the  relief  of  my 
mind.  The  same  day  obtained  a  Minute  to  attend  Salem 
and  Springfield  Quarterly  Meetings,  and  the  meetings  con- 
stituting them,  and  some  families,  as  way  may  open. 

Fifth  Month  3rd. — Set  out  on  my  visit  to  the  northern 
quarters,  having  the  company  of  my  brother  Jacob  Bran- 
son, and  cousin  Abigail  Sears.  Rode  to  Jefferson,  twenty- 
three  miles ;  next  evening  got  to  Salem. 

5th. — Rode  to  Springfield,  and  dined  at  Nathan  Warring- 
ton's.  After  dinner,  had  a  religious  opportunity  with  the 
family,  to  good  satisfaction;  Nathan's  father-in-law  and 
mother-in-law  being  present.  I  had  to  revive  the  language 
of  our  Saviour — "I  am  come  that  ye  might  have  life,  and 
that  ye  might  have  it  more  abundantly."  And  again,  "  I 
am  come  to  set  a  man  at  variance  against  his  father,  and 
the  daughter  against  her  mother,  and  the  daughter-in-law 
against  her  mother-in-law."  "And  a  man's  foes  shall  be 
they  of  his  own  household."  Commenting  upon  these  pas- 
sages as  Truth  gave  me  utterance,  saying  that  however  a 
father,  a  mother  or  daughter  might  miss  his  or  her  way, 
those  who  follow  Christ  will  feel  themselves  bound  to  main- 
tain their  allegiance  to  the  Truth,  and  stand  against  error, 
even  if  it  is  found  in  the  nearest  and  dearest  friend  upon 


1863.]  ANN    BRANSON.  187 

earth.  Then  went  to  the  Select  Quarterly  Meeting  held  at 
three  o'clock ;  was  silent  therein,  and  felt  satisfied. 

6th. — Attended  Springfield  Quarterly  Meeting.  In  the 
forepart  of  which  I  had  to  declare  my  belief  that  there  was 
an  individual  present  who  had  been  tempted  to  take  his 
own  life.  I  had  a  short  testimony  in  the  way  of  caution, 
warning,  and  encouragement  to  such  a  state,  and  felt  peaceful 
and  easy  afterward.  I  have  since  been  informed  that  a  man 
who  left  the  meeting  when  the  shutters  were  closed,  acknow- 
ledged that  he  had  been  under  that  temptation.  After  meet- 
ing, rode  seven  miles  to  New  Garden,  and  lodged  at  Joseph 
Stratton's.  In  the  evening,  before  retiring,  had  a  comfort- 
able religious  opportunity  with  this  Friend  and  his  wife,  a 
brother  and  sister-in-law  also  being  present ;  and  I  felt  my 
faith  and  hope  renewed  in  Him  who  never  said  to  the  wrest- 
ling seed  of  Jacob,  seek  ye  my  face  in  vain. 

7th. — Attended  New  Garden  Meeting.  After  J.  E.  had 
spoken  considerable  therein,  I  had  to  come  forth  with  a 
sharp,  close  testimony,  beginning  with  these  words,  "  I  have 
heard  it  said,  forewarned,  forearmed,"  but  I  had  not  thought 
of  meeting  with  what  I  have  met  with  here.  I  have  seen 
the  serpentine  spirit  at  work  in  the  galleries  and  on  the  facing 
seats,  like  Ishmael  of  old,  who  came  from  the  land  of  stran- 
gers, amongst  the  little  remnant  of  the  children  of  Israel 
which  had  been  left  in  their  own  land,  after  the  greater  part 
had  been  carried  away  to  Babylon.  Now  Ishmael  got  into 
favor  with  Gedaliah  and  treacherously  slew  him,  and  many 
more,  and  those  who  remained  were  greatly  affrighted,  and 
proposed  to  go  into  Egypt,  where  they  concluded  they  should 
not  suffer  hunger  of  bread,  nor  see  the  sword,  nor  hear  the 
alarm  of  war.  But  Jeremiah  plainly  told  them  if  they  did 
go  into  Egypt,  and  refused  to  continue  where  they  were,  they 
would  die  of  those  very  things  they  were  trying  to  escape ; 


188  JOURNAL    OF  [1863. 

but  go  they  would  and  did,  contrary  to  the  express  com- 
mand of  the  Lord  by  the  mouth  of  his  prophet.  I  had  to 
express  my  belief,  that  a  wrong  spirit,  comparable  to  that 
of  Ishmael,  had  been  at  work  amongst  them,  and  slain  some 
of  them,  and  others  being  alarmed  were  flying  for  their  lives. 
I  warned  Friends  to  take  no  dark  steps  like  going  into 
Egypt,  but  to  maintain  their  standing  where  they  were,  and 
the  Lord  would  bless  them.  Though  this  serpentine  spirit 
had  been,  and  was  destroying  the  spiritual  lives  of  many 
amongst  us,  yet  the  Lord's  power  was  over  it,  and  would  de- 
liver from  it  if  faith  and  patience  were  abode  in.  I  encouraged 
and  warned  them  not  to  forsake  the  fountain  of  light,  life  and 
Truth  for  any  false  light,  &c.  Lodged  at  Lewis  Walker's. 
Next  morning,  had  a  religious  opportunity  with  the  parents 
and  children,  bringing  matters  close  home  to  them ;  encour- 
aging and  warning  them  to  labor  for  the  promotion  of  Truth 
in  their  own  hearts. 

Rode  to  Barclay  Stratton's,  and  had  a  religious  oppor- 
tunity with  him  and  his  family.  After  dinner,  rode  eight 
miles  to  Salem,  and  attended  the  Select  Quarterly  Meeting 
held  at  three  o'clock,  in  which  I  was  silent.  That  evening, 
paid  a  visit  to  Daniel  Koll  and  family.  Daniel  had  just 
published  a  pamphlet,  setting  forth  his  convincement  of  the 
principles  professed  by  Friends,  and  his  reception  into  mem- 
bership :  also  his  conclusion  to  leave  that  body  of  Friends 
with  which  he  is  now  connected,  and  his  reasons  for  doing 
so.  I  had  heard  of  this  pamphlet,  but  had  not  seen  or  read 
it.  I  told  Daniel  that  I  fully  believed  that  he  was  under  a 
great  delusion,  that  it  was  a  dark  move  with  which  I  had 
no  unity  whatever.  Much  plain  talk  passed  between  us,  in 
which  I  let  him  know  my  mind  fully,  as  to  the  impropriety 
of  the  steps  he  was  taking,  and  so  leaving  the  matter  with 
him  for  his  consideration,  I  proposed  going ;  but  when  about 


1863.]  ANN     BRANSON.  189 

to  start,  I  felt  a  stop  in  my  mind,  and  thought  it  right  to 
request  that  the  children,  such  as  were  at  home,  might  be 
called  in  ;  which  being  done,  I  had  a  favored  opportunity 
with  them,  encouraging  them  to  turn  unto  and  obey  Him 
who  could  and  would  keep  them  in  the  right  way,  as  they 
were  concerned  above  all  things  to  look  to  Him  for  help, 
and  wait  upon  Him  in  the  way  of  his  requirings.  Oh,  how 
my  heart  is  led  to  sympathize  with  the  children  in  this  day, 
who  are  saying  in  their  hearts,  "  Who  shall  show  us  any 
good  ?  "  I  had  to  set  forth  the  great  responsibility  resting 
upon  parents  as  well  as  others,  not  to  cast  a  stumbling-block 
before  the  dear  children.  I  was  made  truly  thankful  on 
leaving  this  family,  that  I  had  been  faithful  and  delivered 
the  whole  counsel  to  parents  and  children.  Returned  to 
Mary  J.  Fawcett's,  and  lodged. 

9th. — Attended  Salem  Quarterly  Meeting,  which  was  large. 
I  had  not  been  here  before  since  the  separation  in  1854 ; 
and  this  meeting  was  not  so  much  reduced  in  size  as  I  had 
expected.  J.  Edgerton  spoke  at  length ;  after  which,  I 
thought  it  right  to  revive  this  language :  "  Fear  ye  not  the 
reproach  of  men,  neither  be  ye  afraid  of  their  revilings,  for 
the  moth  shall  eat  them  up  like  a  garment,  and  the  worm 
shall  eat  them  like  wool ;  but  my  salvation  shall  be  forever, 
and  my  righteousness  shall  not  be  abolished" — commenting 
thereon  in  a  short,  impressive  testimony,  and  felt  peace  after- 
wards. In  the  afternoon,  several  Friends  came  to  our  lodg- 
ings, and  I  had  to  open  my  mouth  amongst  them,  though  I 
greatly  preferred  keeping  silence.  Beginning  with,  "Seek 
the  Lord  and  ye  shall  live :  but  seek  not  Bethel,  nor  enter 
into  Gilgal,  and  pass  not  to  Beer-sheba ;  for  Gilgal  shall 
surely  go  into  captivity,  and  Bethel  shall  come  to  nought ;" 
giving  it  as  my  belief  that  nothing  was  so  much  needed 
amongst  us,  as  that  of  knowing  in  our  own  individual  ex- 


190  JOURNAL    OF  [1863. 

perience  the  Lord's  circumcising  knife  in  the  temple  of  our 
hearts  —  the  Lord's  axe  —  the  Lord's  plough  —  the  Lord's 
harrow — his  fire  and  harrow,  reducing  and  bringing  into 
conformity  with  his  holy  will  all  that  his  controversy  is 
with.  This  was  a  memorable  opportunity  to  me,  in  which 
the  great  God  was  pleased  to  strengthen  a  poor  worm  to 
plead  with  those  present,  to  give  up  unreservedly  to  his 
holy  will  concerning  them,  and  to  bear  the  turnings  and 
overturnings  of  his  holy  hand  upon  them,  in  order  that  they 
might  find  a  place  of  safety  amidst  the  storm  and  tempest 
now  beating  vehemently  against  the  buildings  of  many,  and 
trying  their  foundations,  and  which  storm  and  tempest  we 
shall  not  be  able  to  escape.  It  was  a  solemn  time,  the  lan- 
guage of  warning,  counsel,  and  encouragement  flowed  freely, 
at  which  my  soul  did  marvel. 

10th. — On  awaking,  this  language  presented  to  my  mind  : 
"  Be  not  dismayed  at  the  signs  of  heaven,  for  the  heathen 
are  dismayed  at  them  ;"  accompanied  with  a  belief  that  it 
would  be  right  for  me  to  go  to  a  Friend's  house  and  strengthen 
the  mind  of  one  of  the  family  by  reviving  the  above  pas- 
sage. I  accordingly  went,  and  had  a  religious  opportunity 
in  the  family,  and  delivered  what  I  apprehended  was  called 
for ;  then  attended  Salem  Meeting,  held  at  eleven  o'clock. 
It  being  First-day,  the  meeting  was  large,  and  I  had  to  plead 
with  those  who  were  putting  off  their  day's  work,  and  warn 
them  of  the  awful  consequences  of  so  doing,  if  they  per- 
sisted therein  until  the  door  of  mercy  should  be  closed 
against  them.  In  the  afternoon  went  to  see  two  aged  Friends, 
and  had  to  revive  the  language  of  the  apostle :  "  leaving  the 
things  that  are  behind,  I  press  towards  the  mark  for  the 
prize,  &c."  This,  I  think,  is  encouraging  not  to  dwell  im- 
properly upon  our  past  failings,  but  to  put  on  strength  in 
the  name  of  the  Lord,  and  follow  his  bidding  in  order  to 


1863.]  ANN    BRANSON.  191 

obtain  the  prize.  My  heart  was  enlarged  towards  them  in 
the  love  of  the  gospel,  and  I  had  good  service  in  this  family. 
After  this  went  to  see  a  sick  young  man,  who  appeared  near 
his  close  with  consumption.  After  a  religious  opportunity 
with  him  and  his  parents  and  sisters,  I  had  another  with 
several  young  people  who  had  come  in  to  see  their  sick 
friend,  which  was  to  the  peace  and  relief  of  my  mind.  The 
same  evening  took  tea  at  Z.  F's.  There  I  had  to  deal  very 
plainly,  encouraging  his  wife  not  to  give  out  in  a  dark  and 
cloudy  day,  but  to  trust  in  the  Lord  and  mind  his  pointings, 
and  way  would  be  made  where  there  appeared  no  way.  I 
told  him  to  be  aware  of  an  endeavoring  to  promote  a  sepa- 
ration in  society  as  he  was  trying  to  do ;  but  to  mind  the 
counsel  of  the  Lord  in  his  own  heart,  that  nothing  was  so 
much  needed  with  him  as  the  operation  of  the  fire  and 
hammer  of  the  Lord.  The  Lord  gave  me  sharp  words  to 
use  to  this  man,  and  strength  to  do  it,  blessed  be  his  name 
forever.  Returned  to  Mary  J.  Fawcetts's,  where  we  made 
our  home  and  lodged.  I  may  add  that  the  first  religious 
opportunity  I  had  in  this  visit  was  in  her  family,  where  I 
had  to  warn  the  young  people  to  be  aware  of  slighting  the 
visitations  of  heavenly  good  to  their  souls,  lest  those  visita- 
tations  be  withdrawn,  and  the  heart  become  hardened,  and 
incapable  of  receiving  good  impressions,  than  which  I  know 
not  of  a  more  deplorable  condition,  save  that  of  being  in 
the  midst  of  tribulation  and  anguish,  "  where  the  worm 
dieth  not,  and  the  fire  is  not  quenched." 

llth. — Early  this  morning  left  Salem  for  New  Garden, 
with  a  prospect  of  reaching  our  own  Quarterly  Meeting,  to 
be  held  the  14th  of  this  month.  At  New  Garden,  I  had  a 
concern  to  visit  a  few  families  who  had  withdrawn  from 
that  meeting,  alleging  as  a  reason  for  so  doing,  that  all  is 
gone  like  life  and  hope  from  their  meetings,  and  if  they 


192  JOURNAL    OF  [1863 

save  their  spiritual  lives,  they  must  make  their  escape  from 
those  who  they  consider  have  lost  the  vitality  of  religion, 
by  favoring  the  disowning  of  the  Gurneyites,  according  to 
the  late  act  of  our  Yearly  Meeting.  I  could  not  favor  this 
act  of  our  Yearly  Meeting  in  1862 ;  yet  I  had  to  use  great 
plainness  of  speech  in  regard  to  this  separation  now  going 
on  in  different  parts  of  our  Yearly  Meeting,  fully  believing 
it  was  a  dark  move,  and  I  told  these  individuals  so  very 
plainly.  Went  to  see  a  widow,  who  appears  to  be  in  a  de- 
clining state  of  health.  Had  a  comfortable  opportunity 
with  her  and  her  children.  Lodged  at  Henry  Lupton's. 
In  the  evening,  before  retiring,  had  a  religious  opportunity 
in  this  family,  which  closed  my  services  for  the  present  in 
these  parts. 

12th. — Kode  forty-seven  miles  to  Cadiz,  where  we  lodged. 
Next  day,  about  ten,  got  to  David  Binns',  at  Harrisville. 
Had  an  opportunity  with  David  and  his  wife ;  they  having 
separated  from  the  meeting  to  which  they  belonged.  His 
wife  was  an  overseer  of  Harrisville  Preparative  Meeting,  and 
has  been  a  concerned,  consistent  Friend  ;  but  has  stumbled 
at  the  late  act  of  the  Yearly  Meeting  in  regard  to  disowning 
those  who  separated  from  us  in  1854.  Oh,  what  a  great 
pity  that  the  leaders  of  the  people  should  cause  them  to 
err.  My  soul  deeply  mourns  on  account  of  the  sad  state  of 
things  amongst  us,  and  I  am  often  reminded  of  the  language 
of  Ezekiel  concerning  those  who  took  horns  and  pushed  the 
diseased  of  the  flock  from  them ;  yet  I  cannot  believe  that 
this  separation  now  going  on  in  our  Yearly  Meeting  will 
land  those  engaged  in  it,  either  in  the  land  of  peace  or 
plenty.  I  have  endeavored  to  deal  plainly  with  those  who 
have  put  a  stumbling-block  in  the  way  of  others,  as  well  as 
those  who  are  stumbled  thereat.  After  a  free  conversation 
with  these  Friends,  I  left  them  with  mournful  feelings  on 


1863.]  ANN    BRANSON.  193 

their  account,  also  on  account  of  their  large  and  interesting 
family.  At  three  o'clock,  attended  our  Select  Quarterly 
Meeting.  It  was  indeed,  a  very  low  time.  The  life  of  re- 
ligion, I  thought,  almost  at  as  low  an  ebb  as  it  well  could  be. 
14th. — Attended  our  Quarterly  Meeting,  which  was  a  very 
exercising  time  to  me.  I  informed  Friends  that  I  had  re- 
turned to  the  Monthly  Meeting  the  Minute  granted  me  more 
than  two  years  ago,  which  was  endorsed  by  the  Quarterly 
Meeting,  that  I  had  attended  to  the  service  for  which  I  was 
liberated,  as  way  opened,  in  good  degree,  to  the  relief  of  my 
mind,  except,  in  a  few  instances;  and  one  in  particular,  for 
the  neglect  of  which  I  have  suffered  deeply.  And  now  it 
may  be  best  for  me  to  record  it  for  a  warning  to  others. 
Several  months  before  the  war  broke  out,  in  the  spring  of 
1861,  I  had  felt  an  impression  that  it  would  be  required  of 
me  to  go  to  Barnesville  and  deliver  a  public  warning  in  the 
main  street  of  that  town  to  the  inhabitan ts  thereof ;  and  the 
spot  I  was  to  go  to,  to  deliver  this  message  from  the  Lord, 
was  pointed  out  to  me.  The  language  contained  in  the  ninth 
chapter  of  Jeremiah,  from  verse  17th  to  verse  25th,  had 
been  sounding  in  my  ears,  month  after  month,  with  a  belief 
that  some,  if  not  all,  of  that  remarkable  declaration  would 
be  required  of  me  to  deliver  in  the  street  of  Barnesville. 
And  being  in  that  neighborhood  on  religious  service  in  the 
spring  of  1861,  and  about  to  return  home,  a  deep  and  weighty 
exercise  came  over  me,  with  an  intimation  to  settle  down 
and  wait  upon  the  Lord,  to  see  and  know  what  He  required 
at  my  hands,  so  that  I  scarcely  knew  what  to  do  with  myself. 
But  I  plead  the  necessity  of  returning  immediately  home, 
having  given  my  companions  and  their  families  to  expect 
our  return  at  that  time,  I  plead  excuse,  and  thought  when 
I  got  a  little  more  strength  I  would  yield,  or  comply  with 
whatever  more  might  be  called  for  at  my  hands  in  that 


194  JOURNAL    OF  [1863. 

place.  But  alas !  the  day  after  I  returned  home,  news  came 
to  Barnesville  that  Fort  Sumter  had  been  bombarded,  and 
now  all  the  town  was  in  an  uproar,  and  everything  out  of 
order  to  hear  a  message  like  unto  the  one  I  had  upon  my 
mind  to  deliver ;  and  indeed,  the  requisition  has  never  since 
been  made,  nor  even  a  presentation  of  it.  I  now  saw  that 
a  dream  which  I  had  some  time  before  was  fulfilled.  I 
thought  in  my  dream  that  I  was  sick,  and  in  a  low,  damp 
place,  and  it  was  required  of  me  to  arise  with  the  help  of 
two  Friends,  and  go  to  a  certain  place  a  short  distance  from 
me,  amongst  some  people,  men,  women  and  children  ;  whom 
I  saw  sitting  quietly  on  raised  forms,  and  other  places  con- 
siderably higher  than  the  ground  I  was  occupying.  They 
appeared  to  be  all  busily  engaged  doing  something,  but  I 
knew  not  what.  With  the  help  of  those  Friends,  I  arose 
and  went  where  these  people  were  sitting.  When  I  came  to 
them  I  perceived  they  were  picking  over  wild  plums,  which 
they  had  gathered  in  abundance,  and  I  thought  in  my  dream 
that  there  had  been  an  abundant  crop  of  wild  plums  that 
year.  As  I  stood  looking  at  the  people,  it  came  into  my 
mind  to  warn  them  to  repent  and  turn  unto  the  Lord ;  but 
I  plead  excuse  that  I  was  too  weak,  and  the  motion  to 
speak  was  not  strong  enough.  But  whilst  I  was  thus  reason- 
ing in  my  mind,  and  waiting  for  more  strength,  they  all 
arose  suddenly  as  with  one  accord  and  dispersed,  running 
some  in  one  direction  and  some  in  another,  in  great  hurry 
and  confusion.  Then  I  saw  in  my  dream  that  I  had  missed 
the  right  time  to  deliver  the  message,  and  that  it  never 
would  return,  and  I  was  brought  into  great  distress,  feeling 
satisfied  that  I  should  never  again  have  the  like  opportunity, 
for  everything  seemed  to  be  in  utter  confusion ;  whereas  a 
little  before  all  was  quiet,  and  a  suitable  opportunity  was 
given  me  to  say  what  the  Lord  required  of  me.  I  felt  that 


1863.]  ANN     BRANSON.  195 

the  blood  of  those  people  would  be  required  at  my  hands. 
I  saw  in  my  dream  the  same  Friends  with  me  who  were 
with  me  afterwards  at  Barnesville.  I  thought  in  my  dream 
that  I  followed  some  and  tried  to  engage  their  attention  to 
hear  what  I  had  to  say,  but  they  were  quick  and  hasty  in 
their  steps,  and  appeared  to  heed  nothing  I  had  to  say. 

Then  I  thought  all  was  over,  and  I  must  bear  my  burden 
alone,  and  that  I  should  never  be  able  to  get  over  the  sor- 
rowful feelings  this  omission  occasioned.  And  so  it  has  very 
much  proved  with  respect  to  my  omission  of  duty  in  the 
case  related.  I  have  felt  that  the  blood  of  many  of  the 
citizens  of  Barnesville  was  required  at  my  hands,  because  I 
did  not  faithfully  warn  them  to  return,  repent  and  live. 
Many  have  gone  from  that  town  to  the  war,  and  have  been 
since  slain  in  battle.  My  dream  was  fulfilled  in  a  remarka- 
ble manner,  for  I  had  been  sick,  or  in  very  poor  health,  and 
had  been  strengthened  to  get  up  and  go  to  Barnesville  to 
attend  to  some  religious  services,  but  lo,  the  time  came  when 
I  must  be  proven  whether  I  would  give  up  all  for  his  sake, 
who  died  for  me.  I  was  disobedient  to  the  heavenly  vision, 
and  justly  have  I  suffered  for  it.  Amen.  The  foregoing 
account  of  my  omission  of  duty  at  Barnesville,  and  the 
dream  here  related  I  have  never  before  related  to  any  one- 

Now,  I  think  it  right  to  leave  in  writing  one  or  two  more 
circumstances,  which  may  be  a  warning  to  others  not  to  put 
off  what  they  believe  the  Lord  is  requiring  at  their  hands. 
It  was,  I  believe,  in  the  year  1837,  that  the  Lord  required 
me  to  visit  an  inn-keeper  in  the  village  of  Flushing,  who 
was  in  the  habit  of  selling  spirituous  liquors,  and  taking  it 
to  excess  himself.  I  had  for  some  years  felt  at  times  a  great 
weight  on  my  mind  concerning  this  man,  during  which  time 
he  was  brought  very  low  with  delirium  tremens.  I  then 
felt  very  fearful  that  if  he  should  be  taken  away  by  death 


196  JOURNAL    OF  [1863. 

ill  that  awful  condition,  that  I  should  not  be  clear  of  his 
blood ;  yet  the  thought  of  visiting  him,  and  delivering  the 
whole  counsel  of  God  unto  him,  was  like  giving  up  my 
natural  life.  The  latter  would  have  been  preferred,  could 
it  have  been  taken  in  place  of  the  former.  But  the  Lord 
in  mercy  raised  him  up  from  this  bed  of  affliction,  and  he 
for  some  time  entirely  refrained  from  the  poisonous  draught. 
Now  it  came  before  me  that  the  time  for  visiting  this  man 
was  about  come,  and  as  I  was  expecting  to  go  with  a  com- 
mittee of  the  Yearly  Meeting  to  visit  some  Meetings  be- 
longing to  Salem  and  Springfield  Quarters,  the  Lord  showed 
me  clearly  that  He  required  me  to  go  to  see  this  inn-keeper 
before  I  left  home,  and  moreover,  he  said  to  me,  If  thou  go 
not,  a  judgment  will  overtake  thee.  This  was  as  clear  to 
the  ear  of  my  soul  as  any  voice  could  be  to  my  outward  or 
natural  ear,  and  such  were  my  feelings  on  this  memorable 
occasion,  that  I  said  in  my  heart,  good  is  the  word  of  the 
Lord,  and  thankfully  bowed  in  a  feeling  of  acquiescence  to 
his  holy  will.  But  alas!  the  frailty  of  human  nature. 

The  same  evening  my  father  and  I  were  sitting  alone  in 
the  house,  it  came  strongly  and  very  impressively  before 
me  to  mention  the  subject  to  him,  for  his  consideration  and 
judgment,  but  I  put  it  off  until  he  left  the  room.  Then  a 
dear  aged  aunt  came  in  ;  again  I  was  impressed  with  the 
belief  that  I  ought  to  mention  the  subject  to  her,  but  I  had 
weakened  my  hands  already  by  letting  my  father  pass  away 
without  unburdening  my  mind  to  him,  and  I  said  nothing 
to  my  aunt  about  it.  The  next  morning  was  the  time  pointed 
out  for  me  to  go,  and  I  concluded  that  when  morning  came 
I  might  feel  stronger,  and  would  wait  till  I  did  before  I  said 
anything  about  it.  When  morning  came,  I  was  weaker  than 
ever,  and  had  no  strength  to  say  anything  about  it,  so  the 
concern  died  on  my  hands,  and,  strange  to  say,  I  thought 


1863.]  ANN     BRANSON.  197 

but  little,  if  anything,  more  about  it  until  the  Lord  awoke 
my  feelings  again  to  consider  what  I  had  done,  or  rather, 
left  undone,  by  bringing  the  judgment  upon  me  which  He 
had  promised  He  would  do  if  I  did  not  obey  his  command. 
I  had  started  on  my  journey  to  Salem,  and  when  within  a 
short  distance  of  a  Friend's  house,  and  near  our  journey's 
end,  our  carriage  upset,  and  my  right  arm  was  broken,  and 
the  elbow  joint  dislocated,  or  partly  so.  For  a  few  minutes 
I  was  almost  unconscious  of  what  had  happened,  but  when 
recovered  a  little,  I  then  remembered  what  the  Lord  had 
said  to  me :  "  If  thou  go  not  to  see  this  man,  before  thou 
leaves  home  for  Salem,  a  judgment  will  overtake  thee." 
And  whilst  some  were  censuring  the  driver  for  carelessness, 
I  was  considering  that  it  was  only  what  I  had  justly  brought 
on  myself  by  disobedience ;  and  now  I  have  ever  since,  a 
lame,  or  rather  a  stiff  arm  to  carry  about  me  as  a  memento 
of  that  act  of  unfaithfulness.  I  was  not,  of  course,  permitted 
to  accompany  my  friends  in  this  visit  any  further,  but  was 
favored  to  get  home  in  a  short  time,  and  as  soon  as  my  arm 
was  well  enough,  was  glad  to  obey  the  call  which  was  re- 
newed, to  visit  this  man,  which  I  did  at  three  different 
times.  He  received  me  respectfully  and  heard  what  I  had 
to  say,  except  on  one  occasion  he  excused  himself,  professing 
other  business  to  attend  to,  which  I  thought  was  occasioned 
by  the  woman  Friend  who  was  with  me.  Poor  man,  he 
died  a  few  years  after  with  delirium  tremens,  so  the  warn- 
ings given  were  unavailing  respecting  him. 

One  more  circumstance  I  will  mention  in  this  place : 
Several  years  after  this  I  was  made  uneasy  with  a  certain 
article  of  my  clothing,  which  appeared  to  me  of  a  texture 
I  was  required  to  change  for  something  more  coarse  and 
uncommon.  This,  though  a  little  thing,  was  like  parting 
with  a  right  eye  or  a  right  hand.  Long  did  I  struggle,  long 


198  JOURNAL    OF  [1863. 

did  I  reason ;  sometimes  appearing  in  the  garb  that  I  ap- 
prehended I  was  required  to  put  on,  and  again  changing 
back.  In  this  way  I  went  on  for  several  years,  and  I  fully 
believe  it  was  the  pride  of  my  heart  that  kept  me  from 
surrendering  sooner.  I  was  often  afraid,  when  I  left  home, 
that  a  judgment  would  overtake  me  when  I  ventured  to 
wear  that  which  had  given  me  so  much  uneasiness.  In  this 
situation  of  mind  I  met  at  one  time  with  the  Boarding 
School  committee.  It  was  there,  above  other  places,  this 
cross  was  hardest  to  bear. 

I  was  intending  to  visit  a  relation  before  returning  home, 
and  begged  for  indulgence  this  once  in  wearing  my  favorite 
article  of  dress.  When  about  to  leave  the  school  for  my 
visit,  having  attired  myself  as  I  was  wont  to  do,  this  lan- 
guage sounded  in  my  ears:  "Thou  knowest  not  what  those 
horses  may  be  permitted  to  do,  before  thou  reaches  thy 
nephew's ;"  accompanied  with  a  feeling  of  uneasiness,  for  my 
halting,  wayward  course.  But  these  feelings  passed  off,  and 
we  went  along  cheerfully,  until  we  had  nearly  reached  my 
nephew's,  when  suddenly  one  of  the  horses  took  fright,  ran  a 
short  distance  with  fury,  turned  out  of  the  road,  and  seemed 
like  tearing  all  to  pieces.  I  said,  as  the  horses  left  the  road, 
We  are  gone !  I  hope  not,  said  my  nephew.  The  horses  were 
suddenly  stopped,  but  not  until  1  fully  expected  we  should  be 
upset  and  perhaps  killed.  My  nephew  admired  at  the  cir- 
cumstance. I  think  he  said  that  he  never  knew  this  creature 
to  do  so  before.  He  saw  nothing  to  scare  the  horse,  but  it 
seemed  so  affrighted,  that  it  trembled  very  much.  This  put 
an  end  to  my  wearing  that  precious  piece  of  clothing,  which 
I  had  so  many  checks  and  calls  to  give  up ;  for  I  fully  be- 
lieved it  was  the  Lord  who  showed  me  how  easily  and  sud- 
denly my  life  might  then  have  been  taken ;  but  in  mercy 
He  spared  me.  Oh,  the  compassionate  regard  of  my  Heav- 


1863.]  ANN    BRANSON.  199 

enly  Father  towards  the  erring  mortal ;  what  shall  I  render 
to  Him  for  all  his  benefits? 

Seventh  Month  18th. — Heard  of  the  death  of  M.  J.,  an 
individual  I  visited  about  a  year  ago,  and  was  constrained 
to  deliver  a  solemn  and  singular  warning  to  him  to  prepare 
to  meet  his  God,  believing  he  had  no  time  to  put  off  the 
call.  Poor  man,  how  thankful  I  feel  that  I  am  clear  of  his 
blood.  The  cup  of  trembling  was  given  me  to  partake  of 
in  his  presence,  and  for  his  sake.  Astonishment  seemed  to 
take  hold  of  him  at  the  message  I  had  to  deliver.  I  un- 
derstand that  strong  drink  was  thought  to  be  one  cause  of 
his  death ;  he  was  not  an  old  man,  but  was  past  the  meridian 
of  life. 

Eleventh  Month  20th. — Returned  home  after  an  absence 
of  more  than  five  weeks,  having  finished  a  religious  visit 
within  the  limits  of  Salem  and  Springfield  Quarterly  Meet- 
ings, for  which  I  was  liberated  in  Fourth  Month  last.  I 
attended  all  the  Monthly  Meetings,  and  nearly  all  the  Par- 
ticular Meetings  of  those  two  quarters,  and  visited  more  than 
eighty  families.  Also,  again  attended  these  two  quarters. 
The  exercise  of  my  spirit  in  this  engagement  none  knows 
but  the  Lord.  I  had  very  often  to  bring  things  so  close 
home  in  families  and  meetings,  that  it  seemed  almost  more 
than  some  could  bear.  May  the  Lord  take  away  every 
stroke  that  was  laid  on  the  shoulders  of  any  too  heavy,  and 
give  it  to  me  to  bear. 

After  an  appointed  meeting  at  New  Garden  for  the  young 
and  youngish  people,  and  being  about  to  go  to  Salem  to  en- 
gage in  a  family  visit  within  the  limits  of  that  Monthly  Meet- 
ing; this  language  very  forcibly  came  before  the  view  of 
my  mind:  "When  the  time  was  come  that  he  should  be  re- 
ceived up,  he  steadfastly  set  his  face  to  go  to  Jerusalem." 
And  again,  "The  cup  which  my  Father  hath  given  me  shall 


200  JOURNAL    OF  [1863. 

I  not  drink  it?"  And  this  was  the  clothing  of  my  spirit. 
The  way  appeared  clearly  pointed  out  to  me  and  I  was  bid- 
den to  turn  neither  to  the  right  hand,  nor  to  the  left.  It 
was  shown  me  where  I  should  begin  the  visit,  and  the  mes- 
sage I  should  deliver.  It  was  almost  more  than  I  knew  how 
to  bear,  and  more  than  the  individuals  visited  seemed  able 
to  bear  in  a  Christian  spirit.  I  had  to  tell  the  head  of  the 
family  that  he  was  clothed  with  a  linsey  garment  over  which 
was  a  coat  of  mail ;  and  had  to  revive  the  language — "  Oh, 
that  thou  hadst  hearkened  to  my  commandments !  then  had 
thy  peace  been  as  a  river,  and  thy  righteousness  as  the  waves 
of  the  sea."  I  believed  it  was  the  will  of  the  Almighty  that 
the  filthy  rags  of  our  own  righteousness  should  be  parted  with 
and  the  pure  white  linen,  the  righteousness  of  saints,  be  given 
us  in  place  thereof. 

Very  close  work  I  had  in  many  families,  and  the  cup  was 
indeed  the  cup  of  trembling  which  I  had  to  drink.  At  one 
place,  having  staid  all  night  and  been  treated  kindly  by  the 
family,  after  going  from  there  to  meeting,  I  had  to  return 
in  the  evening  and  tell  the  woman  Friend  that  a  fretting 
leprosy  had  got  into  her  garments,  as  well  as  a  high,  lofty 
spirit.  The  Lord  was  willing  and  able  to  heal  her,  though 
it  might  require  the  fire  to  work  it  out.  This  was  a  hard 
stroke  for  her,  but  I  dared  not  turn  to  the  right  hand  or  the 
left.  I  had  also  considerable  to  say  to  her  husband,  and  he 
expressed  satisfaction  with  our  visit.  One  place  after  an- 
other in  the  plain  way  I  was  required  to  go,  as  the  Lord 
strengthened  me,  and  this  He  did  in  a  marvellous  manner, 
both  in  body  and  mind. 

Amongst  those  who  have  recently  separated  from  their 
respective  meetings,  I  had  to  deal  in  a  very  plain  way,  be- 
cause I  could  not  in  the  fear  and  counsel  of  the  Most  High, 
according  as  it  was  sealed  on  my  mind,  do  otherwise  than 


1863.]  ANN    BRANSON.  201 

condemn  their  course  of  action.  In  the  Monthly  and  Quar- 
terly Meetings  I  had  to  tell  Friends  in  a  very  plain  way, 
how  things  appeared  to  me  amongst  them  ;  and  in  our  re- 
ligious Society ;  and  that  the  Lord  would  sift  us  until  we 
were  a  people  more  to  his  praise  than  we  now  are.  I  had 
to  revive  the  testimony  of  Francis  Howgill  concerning  our 
religious  Society,  and  express  my  full  belief  that  his  remark- 
able testimony  would  stand  good.  I  alluded  to  what  he 
says  concerning  the  covenant,  which  the  Lord  made  with  this 
people  in  the  rise  of  the  Society  when  persecution  raged  like 
a  storm  against  the  wall  to  destroy  them.  (See  Sewel's  His- 
tory, Vol.  ii,  page  14.) 

My  dear  friends  Isaac  Mitchell  and  Abigail  Sears,  were 
my  companions  in  this  visit,  the  exercise  of  whose  spirits  I 
often  felt  to  be  helpful  to  me,  and  comparable  to  Aaron  and 
Hur,  who  held  up  the  hands  of  Moses.  At  one  place,  hav- 
ing dealt  in  a  very  plain  way  with  the  head  of  the  family, 
and  being  about  to  leave,  as  I  took  hold  of  the  hand  of  this 
man  to  bid  him  farewell,  this  language  came  very  forcibly 
before  the  view  of  my  mind,  with  a  belief  that  it  might  be 
right  to  express  it,  viz:  "My  son,  hide  it  not."  We  may 
remember  that  this  was  the  language  of  Joshua  to  Achan ; 
but  I  shrank  from  apprehended  duty  and  passed  away ;  but 
the  distress  which  came  over  my  mind,  none  but  the  Lord 
knows.  So,  for  the  sake  of  peace  I  gladly  went  back  again 
to  his  house,  and  endeavored  to  deal  out  the  whole  counsel 
of  God  to  him  and  his  family.  As  far  as  was  given  to  see 
and  know,  gross  darkness  was  there.  At  another  place,  after 
delivering  a  very  close  testimony  to  the  man  and  his  wife, 
I  told  them  there  was  something  hidden  about  that  house, 
for  darkness  was  there. 

At  another  place,  after  sitting  a  considerable  time  in  si- 
lence, and  feeling  something  to  arise  to  communicate,  and 
14 


202  JOURNAL    OF  [1863l 

being  about  to  do  it,  I  felt  a  sudden  stop ;  and  asked  if  all 
the  family  were  present.  The  father  replied,  all  except  one 
son,  and  he  was  not  willing  to  give  us  his  company.  I  told 
them  that  under  this  circumstance  I  should  feel  best  satisfied 
to  leave  at  present,  and  if  the  Master  required  me  to  come 
again,  I  would  endeavor  to  do  so.  We  went  on  another 
day,  but  again  the  son  refused  to  come  into  the  house.  I 
asked  the  mother  if  she  would  be  willing  to  go  with  me 
where  he  was  at  work.  She  readily  assented.  We  found 
him  husking  corn  in  a  field  not  far  from  the  house.  He  ap- 
peared very  angry  because  of  our  coming,  talked  very  un- 
becoming to  his  mother,  and  looked  so  wicked,  that  I  feared 
he  would  strike  her.  I  reasoned  with  him  of  righteousness 
and  the  judgment  to  come.  He  told  me  he  wanted  to  hear 
nothing  I  had  to  say,  and  cared  nothing  about  these  things. 
I  endeavored  to  engage  his  attention  and  followed  him  from 
one  shock  of  corn  to  another,  but  all  appeared  to  be  in  vain. 
If  I  had  supplicated  the  throne  of  Grace  on  his  behalf  before 
leaving  the  field,  on  the  bended  knee,  I  believe  that  I  should 
have  felt  clear  of  him.  .  Such  a  hardened  state  in  one  so 
young  I  have  rarely  met  with.  I  did  not  suppose  him  to 
be  more  than  eighteen  or  nineteen  years  old. 

A  few  days  after  this  I  was  at  a  funeral  in  another  neigh- 
borhood, where  I  had  a  close  warning  to  give  to  some  in  the 
younger  walks  of  life.  I  afterwards  learned  that  this  young 
man  was  present,  at  which  my  heart  rejoiced,  having  had 
an  opportunity  to  relieve  my  mind  in  a  very  close  warning 
without  knowing  of  his  presence. 

Whilst  engaged  in  this  visit  we  attended  Sandy  Spring 
Monthly  Meeting ;  after  which,  on  passing  a  Friend's  house 
in  that  neighborhood,  it  forcibly  presented  to  my  mind,  that 
I  must  visit  the  family  residing  there  before  returning  home, 
and  I  concluded  to  do  so ;  but  said  nothing  about  it  to  any 


1863.]  ANN    BRANSON.  203 

one,  and  the  concern  and  remembrance  of  it  passed  from  me. 
On  our  way  home,  when  we  came  to  the  road  which  led  to 
this  house,  I  felt  a  strong  presentation  to  take  that  road  and 
lodge  at  a  Friend's  house  some  miles  short  of  the  place  we 
were  intending  to  reach  that  night.  But  this  family  visit 
had  so  gone  from  me  that  I  did  not  remember  it  until  after 
we  had  left  the  road  leading  to  the  house.  Then  my  burden 
greatly  increased,  and  I  knew  not  what  to  do.  It  was  rain- 
ing fast,  the  road  very  hilly  and  slippery,  night  near  at  hand, 
our  horses  very  tired,  and  we  some  miles  from  the  road 
where  we  should  have  turned  in ;  and  had  it  not  been  for 
the  encouragement  of  my  kind  companions,  who  were  by  this 
time  acquainted  with  the  burden  resting  upon  me,  I  should 
have  gone  on. 

We  now  turned  back,  and  made  the  best  of  our  way 
through  the  rain  and  over  the  hills  till  we  reached  the 
Friend's  house  just  at  night,  where  we  should  have  stopped 
had  I  attended  strictly  to  the  pointings  of  the  Master  at  the 
road  leading  here.  I  felt  greatly  humbled  and  unworthy 
of  the  least  regard  of  my  Heavenly  Father ;  conscious  of 
my  waywardness  and  want  of  faith  in  his  pointings  to  duty. 
Next  morning,  very  early,  I  informed  the  Friend  and  his 
wife  where  we  lodged,  of  my  concern  to  visit  the  family  be- 
fore alluded  to,  but  as  the  man's  wife  was  not  a  member 
amongst  Friends  (being  a  Hicksite,  of  which  I  was  not 
aware),  it  was  thought  improbable  that  such  a  visit  would 
be  acceptable  (a  Friend  having  recently  been  denied  such 
a  visit),  but  application  being  made  the  request  was  granted, 
and  we  had  a  more  satisfactory  opportunity  than  was  an- 
ticipated. 

The  father,  mother  and  daughter  were  tendered,  especially 
the  daughter,  who  wept  freely ;  being  a  gay  young  woman 
and  not  a  member  amongst  Friends.  I  could  but  rejoice 


204  JOURNAL    OF  [1864. 

greatly,  yet  not  without  trembling ;  and  a  feeling  of  deep 
humiliation  that  way  was  made  for  me  to  relieve  my  bur- 
dened mind,  after  having  so  nearly  put  myself  out  of  the 
reach  of  complying  with  my  Master's  requisition ;  and  con- 
sequently must  have  carried  a  great  burden  home  with  me. 
The  Friend  and  his  wife,  at  whose  house  we  lodged,  went 
with  us  to  this  family. 

Not  long  after  this  visit  the  wife  of  the  Friend  where  we 
lodged,  and  the  one  visited,  were  laid  in  the  silent  tomb ; 
also  the  daughter  then  present.  I  was  exercised  in  that  op- 
portunity that  all  might  be  prepared  for  the  hour  of  death, 
that  it  often  comes  at  an  unexpected  time,  and  in  an  unex- 
pected way.  When  in  this  neighborhood  on  a  religious  visit 
ten  years  before,  I  hastened  home  and  left  some  duties  ne- 
glected, for  which  I  suffered  much,  and  now  I  had  nearly 
done  the  same  again.  May  I  learn  obedience  by  the  things 
I  suffer. 

Surely  the  Lord  has  had  patience  with  me  more  than  I 
can  possibly  describe. 

Seventh  Month  24th,  1864.— What  shall  I  render  unto 
the  Lord  for  all  his  mercies.  I  have  now  partially  recovered 
from  a  severe  attack  of  erysipelas  in  my  head  and  eyes.  At 
one  time  during  my  illness  the  stroke  of  death  seemed  near 
at  hand.  So  great  was  the  heat  in  my  head,  that  it  seemed 
as  if  I  was  holding  it  over  a  hot  fire.  Whilst  the  rest  of  my 
body  was  so  cold  as  to  require  warm  mustard  baths  neces- 
sary to  keep  up  the  circulation,  cold  applications  were  con- 
stantly applied  to  my  head.  Great  was  the  suffering,  not  of 
pain  but  of  heat  and  inflammation  of  the  brain,  but  through 
all  I  was  permitted  to  retain  my  senses,  which  I  esteemed  a 
great  favor.  May  I  number  my  days  and  be  prepared  for 
a  sudden  summons  from  works  to  rewards  which  may  be  my 
experience,  that  is,  a  sudden  removal. 


1865.]  ANN     BRANSON.  205 

On  the  7th  of  the  Seventh  Month,  1865, 1  returned  home 
from  a  visit  within  the  limits  of  Philadelphia  Yearly  Meet- 
ing. Great  were  the  exercises  of  my  spirit  whilst  engaged 
in  this  visit,  and  many  sore  trials  I  had  to  pass  through. 

Previous  to  laying  the  subject  of  this  visit  before  my 
friends,  I  had  been  confined  to  my  room  and  bed  nearly 
seven  months  with  a  severe  illness;  the  disease  appeared 
mainly  to  be  dropsy  of  the  chest  and  an  affection  of  the 
heart.  The  subject  of  visiting  some  meetings  within  the 
limits  of  that  Yearly  Meeting,  particularly  the  meetings  be- 
longing to  Cain,  Concord  and  Philadelphia  Quarterly  Meet- 
ings, and  some  families  within  their  limits;  also  to  attend 
the  Yearly  Meeting,  had  for  several  years  at  times  weighed 
heavily  on  my  mind.  But  during  the  greater  part  of  this 
illness  it  looked  altogether  improbable  that  I  should  ever 
accomplish  the  visit.  I  remarked  to  two  Friends  who  were 
waiting  on  me,  that  I  had  expected  it  would  have  been  re- 
quired of  me  to  go  to  Philadelphia,  but  now  it  does  not  look 
likely  I  shall  ever  perform  the  visit. 

But  in  the  First  Month  of  the  year  1865,  although  not 
able  to  sit  up  out  of  bed  but  a  little  while  at  a  time,  yet  on 
First-day  previous  to  our  Monthly  Meeting,  I  felt  that  it 
was  required  of  me  to  go  to  meeting,  and  though  it  was 
judged  very  unsuitable  weather  for  an  invalid  to  ride  out, 
yet  I  attended  to  the  Master's  bidding,  and  went ;  and  had  to 
deliver  a  testimony  for  the  Truth  and  felt  none  the  worse  for 
going.  The  next  Fifth-day  was  Monthly  Meeting,  the  weath- 
er very  cold,  and  every  thing  as  to  the  outward  forbidding 
me  to  turn  out ;  but  the  Lord  gave  me  an  assurance  that  He 
required  the  sacrifice  at  my  hands,  which  left  me  no  room 
to  doubt. 

On  the  evening  previous  to  the  Monthly  Meeting  (the 
weather  still  being  very  cold),  whilst  considering  the  pros- 


206  JOURNAL    OF  [1865. 

pect  before  me,  and  being  desirous  above  all  things  to  do 
the  will  of  the  Lord  herein,  in  addition  to  that  grain  of 
living  faith,  which  can  remove  mountains,  this  Scripture 
was  brought  forcibly  to  my  remembrance,  "Ask  theeasign," 
whilst  I  was  ruminating  on  this  language  so  impressively 
brought  before  the  view  of  my  mind,  it  was  sounded  in  the 
ear  of  my  soul,  /  will  give  thee  a  sign — "  The  weather  shall 
be  three  degrees  warmer  in  the  morning  than  it  is  this  even- 
ing." Then  I  called  M.  W.,  the  young  woman  who  was 
waiting  on  me,  and  requested  her  to  look  at  the  thermometer 
and  bring  me  word  concerning  the  weather,  which  she  did. 
In  the  morning  early  I  made  the  same  request  without  let- 
ting her  or  any  one  know  why  I  did  so.  And  found  by  her 
reports  the  Lord  had  verified  his  promise,  which  was  a  con- 
firmation to  my  mind,  and  produced  a  feeling  of  deep  hu- 
miliation in  view  of  the  condescension  of  the  great  I  Am, 
towards  a  worm  of  the  dust.  With  that  grain  of  living  faith 
which  can  remove  mountains  I  went  to  meeting,  having  to 
be  carried  to  the  carriage,  and  also  out  of  the  meeting-house, 
when  the  meeting  was  over.  When  I  laid  the  subject  be- 
fore Friends  they  were  greatly  surprised,  and  considering 
my  great  bodily  weakness,  and  the  improbability  that  I  could 
ever  perform  the  yisit,  a  long  silence  prevailed.  Then  one 
after  another  was  moved  by  the  influence  of  Truth  in  their 
hearts  to  unite  with  the  concern,  until  full  and  free  unity 
was  expressed  therewith,  and  I  felt  now  satisfied  to  leave  it 
with  the  Master. 

During  the  interval  between  this  meeting  and  the  Quar- 
terly Meeting,  I  had  a  very  severe  turn  of  disease,  and  some 
of  my  friends  thought  the  will  would  surely  be  taken  for  the 
deed,  and  I  would  be  released  by  death.  The  day  previous 
to  our  Quarterly  Meeting,  having  the  company  of  our  friends 
Joseph  Edgerton  and  wife,  I  alluded  to  the  weighty  service 


1865.]  ANN    BRANSON.  207 

in  prospect,  and  remarked,  that  considering  my  great  bodily 
weakness  the  will  might  yet  be  taken  for  the  deed ;  to  which 
Joseph  replied  with  emphasis,  "Rest  satisfied,  thou  wilt  be 
strengthened  in  body  and  mind  to  perform  this  visit." 

Next  day  I  was  strengthened  in  body  and  mind  to  attend 
meeting  and  lay  the  subject  before  Friends.  The  Quarterly 
Meeting  fully  united  with  the  concern,  and  liberated  me  to 
attend  thereto.  Elizabeth  Smith,  a  minister,  remarked  in 
the  meeting,  "  This  is  the  Lord's  doings,  and  marvellous  in 
our  eyes."  After  this  I  was  repeatedly  quite  ill,  so  that  the 
prospect  of  performing  the  visit  according  to  human  calcu- 
lation appeared  impossible:  but  it  may  well  be  asked,  is 
anything  too  hard  for  the  Almighty  ?  For  He  who  required 
the  service,  strengthened  me  with  might  in  the  inner  man, 
and  also  gave  me  bodily  strength  to  perform  that  which  to 
the  human  understanding  appeared  impossible. 


CHAPTER    VIII. 

A  RELIGIOUS  VISIT  TO  PHILADELPHIA  YEARLY  MEETING,  AND  MANY  OF  ITS 
BRANCHES — HER  REMARKABLE  TESTIMONY  IN  THE  MEN'S  YEARLY  MEET- 
ING, AND  MUCH  PLAIN  DEALING  IN  OTHER  PLACES,  DURING  THE  FULFIL- 
MENT OF  REQUIRED  SERVICES  THERE. 

I  set  out  on  this  journey  the  10th  of  the  Fourth  Month, 
1865,  and  was  from  home  three  months  lacking  three  days. 
Isaac  Mitchell  and  cousin  Rebecca  S.  Branson  were  my  com- 
panions, the  former  being  an  elder  in  good  esteem.  They 
were  both  very  kind  to  me  in  this  journey.  We  rode  twenty 
miles  in  the  carriage,  then  took  the  cars  for  Philadelphia. 
When  I  got  to  the  city,  it  was  with  difficulty  I  could  walk, 
even  with  help,  but  a  night's  rest  recruited  me  so  that  next 
day  I  attended  Arch  Street  Meeting  (it  being  their  Week- 


208  JOURNAL    OF  [1865. 

day  Meeting).  Contrary  to  my  expectation,  I  had  to  open 
my  mouth  and  declare,  that  the  same  Jesus  who  kept  Peter 
from  sinking  in  the  midst  of  the  sea,  was  still  able  and  wil- 
ling to  preserve  and  succor  those  who  cry  unto  Him  for  help, 
and  put  their  trust  in  Him — the  same  to-day,  yesterday  and 
forever,  &c. 

After  meeting,  several  Friends  spoke  to  me,  and  some  said 
they  were  glad  to  see  me.  Seventh-day  following  was  Select 
Yearly  Meeting.  I  informed  Friends  that  I  had  a  Minute 
of  unity  and  concurrence  from  the  Monthly  and  Quarterly 
Meeting  of  which  I  was  a  member,  liberating  me  for  religious 
service  within  their  limits.  (But  having  been  advised  by 
one  of  their  principal  elders  not  to  offer  my  Minute  to  the 
meeting,  they  having  come  to  the  conclusion  some  years 
previous  to  read  no  Minutes  for  ministers  travelling  amongst 
them  from  any  meeting  whatever,  I  did  not  lay  it  on  the 
table,  and  no  one  called  for  it,  though  it  was  from  branches 
of  Ohio  Yearly  Meeting  with  which  Philadelphia  had  cor- 
responded since  the  separation  in  1854,  and  owned  as  the 
legitimate  Yearly  Meeting  of  Ohio.)  Several  Friends  ex- 
pressed their  satisfaction  with  the  information  given,  and 
desired  I  would  not  feel  embarrassed  on  account  of  my  Min- 
ute not  being  read,  but  be  encouraged  to  do  what  I  might 
find  to  do  amongst  them. 

16th. — Attended  the  Public  Meeting  at  Arch  Street,  both 
in  the  morning  and  afternoon,  but  had  nothing  to  commu- 
nicate. 

17th. — The  Yearly  Meeting  for  business  commenced.  I 
informed  women  Friends  how  I  was  amongst  them,  but  as 
my  Minute  had  not  been  read  in  the  Select  Yearly  Meeting, 
the  regular  channel  through  which  such  Minutes  were  to 
come  before  the  Yearly  Meeting,  I  did  not  think  it  proper 
to  offer  it  there.  Women  Friends  expressed  satisfaction 


1865.]  ANN     BRANSON.  209 

with  this  information,  and  desired  I  would  feel  my  way 
open  to  perform  any  service  amongst  them  required  at  my 
hands. 

On  taking  my  seat  in  that  meeting,  and  casting  my  eyes 
over  that  large  assembly,  nearly  all  of  whom  were  strangers 
to  me,  I  could  not  suppress  the  rising  tears  which  flowed  for 
a  time  unrestrained.  I  remembered  that  it  had  been  several 
years  since  I  first  felt  a  concern  to  visit  some  of  the  meet- 
ings constituting  that  Yearly  Meeting,  &c.,  that  the  concern 
had  again  and  again  revived  and  been  put  by ;  at  one  time 
the  prospect  seemed  so  nearly  ripened  for  public  avowal, 
that  I  expected  to  lay  it  before  the  next  Monthly  Meeting, 
but  lo!  He  who  gathereth  the  winds  in  his  fists,  who  scat- 
tereth  the  hoar  frost,  and  causeth  the  hail,  rain  and  floods 
to  descend  upon  the  earth,  He  who  dealeth  marvellously 
with  the  children  of  men,  both  in  the  visible  and  spiritual 
creation,  brought  a  blight  upon  the  prospect,  and  showed 
me  that  it  was  not  required  of  me  to  make  the  concern  pub- 
lic at  that  time. 

The  subject  rested  with  me  for  several  years,  with  no  open- 
ing to  move  therein,  till  the  fall  of  1863,  whilst  engaged  in 
a  visit  to  one  of  our  northern  quarters,  I  again  felt  that  the 
time  was  drawing  near  when  it  would  be  required  of  me  to 
lay  it  before  my  friends  ;  and  I  said  to  a  Friend  who  accom- 
panied me  on  this  visit — "What  if  thou  shouldst  have  to  go 
with  me  to  Philadelphia  Yearly  Meeting?"  But  I  did  not 
then  know  what  great  affliction  I  should  have  to  pass 
through  before  it  was  made  public.  I  had  to  tell  Friends 
in  the  women's  Yearly  Meeting,  that  I  had  long  felt  a  con- 
cern to  visit  Friends  in  those  parts,  but  never  till  recently, 
and  that  too,  on  a  bed  of  languishing,  had  I  felt  the  word 
of  command  given  to  lay  the  subject  before  my  friends  at 
home,  &c. 


210  JOURNAL    OF  [1865. 

I  had  on  the  first  day  of  the  meeting  for  business  con- 
siderable to  communicate,  which  appeared  satisfactory  to 
Friends ;  and  once  again  during  the  week,  on  the  subject  of 
dress  and  address,  and  the  necessity  of  keeping  to  plainness 
in  these  respects,  and  out  of  the  vain  customs  and  fashions 
of  the  world. 

At  the  Friend's  house  where  we  lodged  during  the  week 
of  Yearly  Meeting,  many  Friends  often  came  in,  in  the  even- 
ing, and  although  I  would  have  greatly  preferred  being  out 
of  sight,  and  unheard  as  to  the  ministry,  yet  it  was  often 
laid  upon  me  to  speak  in  these  companies,  and  I  think  some 
of  those  opportunities  will  not  soon  be  forgotten  by  some  of 
those  in  attendance. 

The  Yearly  Meeting  closed  on  Fifth-day,  the  20th  of  the 
Fourth  Month.  I  had  felt  it  right  to  request  the  liberty  of 
visiting  men's  meeting  before  it  closed,  which  was  granted 
on  Fifth-day  afternoon.  After  taking  my  seat  and  sitting 
awhile,  this  language  arose  in  my  mind,  with  a  belief  that 
it  was  right  to  express  it,  viz :  "  Be  silent  O  all  flesh,  before 
the  Lord,  for  He  is  raised  up  out  of  his  holy  habitation." 
I  said,  that  on  taking  my  seat  in  that  meeting,  I  felt  that  I 
might  be  permitted  to  spend  the  time  in  silence  and  return 
without  uttering  anything;  that  my  heart  rejoiced  under 
that  feeling,  and  as  I  was  settling  down  here,  the  language 
quoted  sprang  up  in  my  mind,  and  I  felt  it  right  to  revive 
it.  I  remembered  that  it  was  a  complaint  made  against  the 
priests  in  Israel  in  the  days  of  Ezekiel,  that  they  put  no 
difference  between  the  holy  and  profane,  and  did  not  show 
difference  between  the  unclean  and  the  clean.  Under  the 
law  of  Moses  the  beasts  which  were  to  be  eaten  were  those 
that  chewed  the  cud  and  parted  the  hoof — the  one  without 
the  other  was  not  sufficient.  The  operations  of  the  mouth, 
and  the  track  of  the  foot  must  be  taken  into  the  account, 


1865.]  ANN    BRANSON.  211 

and  correspond.  This  points  to  the  example  and  precept 
of  those  under  the  gospel  dispensation,  who  were  true  fol- 
lowers of  Jesus,  the  precept  and  example  of  these  would  be 
such  as  was  worthy  to  be  followed.  But  those  who  made  a 
profession  of  the  Truth  without  giving  a  corresponding  ex- 
ample, no  matter  what  their  standing  or  station  in  society 
might  be,  they  were  nothing  better  than  the  unclean  beasts 
under  the  law,  not  to  be  partaken  of.  I  believed  there  were 
those  in  that  meeting  who  had  been,  and  were  influential 
members,  whose  example  was  not  wholesome  to  set  before 
the  people,  and  there  were  those  whose  duty  it  was  to  show 
difference  between  these  and  those  who  maintained  the  doc- 
trines and  testimonies  of  the  Society  inviolate,  but  who  had 
neglected  their  duty  until  a  great  mixture  had  taken  place. 
I  said,  I  believed  there  were  those  in  high  stations,  who 
were  comparable  to  Adoni-bezek,  spoken  of  in  Judges,  when 
Judah  and  Simeon  went  up  to  drive  out  the  Canaanites  and 
Perrizzites,  and  take  possession  of  their  lots,  they  found 
Adoni-bezek  in  Bezek,  and  they  fought  against  him,  but  he 
fled,  and  they  pursued  after  him  and  caught  him,  and  when 
they  had  cut  off  his  thumbs  and  great  toes,  he  was  brought 
to  this  remarkable  confession,  viz :  "  Three  score  and  ten 
kings  having  their  thumbs  and  their  great  toes  cut  off, 
gathered  their  meat  under  my  table ;  as  I  have  done,  so  God 
hath  requited  me."  And  they  brought  him  to  Jerusalem, 
and  there  he  died.  I  believed  there  were  those  in  that  meet- 
ing who  had  been  occupying  lots  which  the  Lord  never 
designed  they  should  occupy,  and  had  been  busily  engaged, 
maiming  and  crippling  all  who  could  not  come  up  to,  or 
follow  the  line  of  demarcation  laid  down  by  them.  They 
were  actuated  by  human  wisdom  and  human  policy,  in  the 
management  of  the  affairs  of  the  church,  and  all  who  were 
not  disposed  to  succumb  to  their  wishes  and  follow  out  their 


212  JOURNAL    OF  [1865. 

line  of  demarcation  were  put  under,  maimed,  lamed  and 
crippled.  That  the  Lord  in  his  own  time  would  deliver  his 
people  out  of  their  hands,  and  they  would  die  conspicuous 
cripples  if  they  did  not  repent  and  return  unto  the  Lord,  as 
did  Adoni-bezek,  and  the  language  of  their  hearts  would  be 
similar  to  his  "  Three  score  and  ten  kings  having  their 
thumbs  and  great  toes  cut  off,  gathered  their  meat  under 
my  table,  as  I  have  done,  so  hath  the  Lord  requited  me." 

I  said,  moreover,  there  were  those  who  were  snugly  quar- 
tered in  their  winter  houses  like  king  Jehoiachin,  who  had 
also  a  fire  of  coals  on  the  hearth  before  them,  and  sharp 
penknives  in  their  pockets,  ready  to  cut  to  pieces  and  burn 
the  roll  that  was  delivered  to  them,  so  that  a  trace  of  it 
should  not  be  left ;  but  the  Lord  would  send  another  roll, 
and  they  would  have  to  hear  and  realize  his  words  fulfilled. 
I  said  the  Lord  would  have  a  people  to  his  praise.  He 
would  confound  the  wisdom  of  the  wise  and  bring  to  noth- 
ing the  understanding  of  the  prudent ;  He  would  sift  us  until 
we  were  a  people  more  to  his  praise.  I  had  felt  a  sympathy 
and  unity  with  a  remnant  in  that  meeting.  I  desired  the 
encouragement  of  those  whose  hearts  trusted  in  the  living 
God.  He  never  said  to  the  wrestling  seed  of  Jacob,  Seek 
ye  my  face  in  vain,  that  as  these  kept  to  the  Master,  they 
would  experience  this  language  verified  in  their  own  par- 
ticular, "  Though  ye  have  lain  among  the  pots,  yet  shall  ye 
be  as  the  wings  of  a  dove  covered  with  silver,  and  her 
feathers  with  yellow  gold  ;  and  again  the  young  lions  do 
lack  and  suffer  hunger,  but  they  who  wait  upon  the  Lord 
shall  renew  their  strength,  they  shall  mount  up  with  wings 
as  eagles ;  they  shall  run  and  not  be  weary,  they  shall  walk 
and  not  faint."  Much  encouragement  flowed  to  the  honest- 
hearted,  and  a  warning  to  backsliders  to  return,  repent  and 
live. 


1865.]  ANN     BRANSON.  213 

After  I  had  fully  and  faithfully  relieved  my  mind  in  that 
meeting,  I  left  them,  but  before  leaving  I  told  them  the 
Lord  had  not  raised  me  from  a  bed  of  languishing  and 
given  me  strength  of  body  to  come  amongst  them,  to  speak 
my  own  words  or  mark  out  my  own  path.  I  felt  that  I 
must  be  faithful,  no  matter  how  hard  it  was  for  them  to 
hear,  or  for  me  to  deliver,  the  whole  counsel.  After  leaving 
this  meeting,  I  felt  that  I  had  incurred  the  displeasure  and 
disunity  of  some,  who  before,  had  shown  me  much  favor ; 
but  my  mind  was  stayed  on  the  Shepherd  of  Israel.  After 
reaching  my  lodgings,  I  met  with  ample  proof  that  my 
feelings  were  correct,  and  I  said  to  my  companion  "  He  that 
eateth  with  me  hath  lifted  up  his  heel  against  me."  This  I 
said  in  reference  to  some  who  before  had  shown  me  much 
kindness,  and  with  whom  we  had  had  some  favored  oppor- 
tunities. Next  morning,  I  felt  it  right  to  call  some  Friends 
together,  and  ask  their  advice  with  respect  to  proceeding 
further  in  the  prosecution  of  the  visit,  or  returning  home. 

As  the  Yearly  Meeting  had  taken  no  cognizance  of  my 
Minute,  I  had  strong  thoughts  that  it  might  be  best  for  me  to 
return  immediately  home.  The  principal  speaker  in  this  op- 
portunity being  an  elder  of  much  influence  in  the  city,  and  in 
the  Yearly  Meeting,  advised  me  to  return  home  without  at- 
tempting to  prosecute  my  visit  further,  saying  the  last  eighteen 
hours  had  been  to  him  a  time  of  unspeakable  distress.  That 
my  way  had  been  remarkably  made  and  opened  in  the  city 
amongst  Friends,  until  my  visit  to  the  men's  meeting,  and 
now  it  was  closed  up,  and  I  could  have  no  liberty  to  ap- 
point any  meetings  amongst  them.  No  one  else  advised  me 
to  return  home,  but  several  Friends  coming  in  afterwards, 
desired  I  would  not  be  hasty,  but  wait  .for  Divine  direction, 
believing  way  would  be  made  for  me,  where  now  there  ap- 
peared no  way.  I  felt  quiet,  and  my  mind  lifted  up  to  the 


214  JOURNAL    OF  [1865. 

Helper  of  his  people  for  direction  and  strength  to  do  his 
will.  My  companions  were  deeply  tried,  and  I  pitied  them 
much,  but  could  do  nothing  but  pray  for  myself  and  for 
them.  I  told  the  Friend  who  advised  me  to  go  home,  that 
I  felt  this  language  verified :  "  He  that  eateth  with  me  hath 
lifted  up  his  heel  against  me."  After  this  I  asked  him  if  he 
had  any  particular  time  set  for  us  to  start.  He  said,  no ! 
I  then  told  him  I  thought  we  might  wait  a  few  days.  He 
thought  so,  too. 

The  next  week  was  the  time  their  Monthly  Meetings  oc- 
curred in  the  city.  I  asked  this  elder  if  he  was  willing  we 
should  attend  them.  He  said  yes.  After  these  meetings 
were  over,  and  the  Quarterly  Meeting  of  Philadelphia, 
(which  we  attended)  I  asked  him  if  he  was  willing  we 
should  go  within  the  limits  of  Cain  Quarter  and  attend  the 
Monthly  Meetings  ?  He  said  "  Yes,  perfectly."  So  we  made 
arrangements  and  attended  all  the  Monthly  Meetings  in 
that  Quarter. 

Next  we  attended  Concord  Quarterly  Meeting.  In  the 
meeting  for  ministers  and  elders,  I  had  a  trying  service.  I 
told  them  I  saw  amongst  them  those  who  were  maimed  and 
lamed  ;  men  and  women  cripples ;  those  who  could  not  take 
a  straightforward,  free,  firm  and  steady  step  in  the  path  of 
duty,  who  had  become  cripples  for  the  want  of  keeping  the 
eye  to  the  Master,  instead  of  leaning  on  the  arm  of  flesh. 
Though  they  were  at  a  loss  to  know  what  was  meant  by 
cutting  off  thumbs  and  great  toes,  yet  they  had  their  thumbs 
and  great  toes  cut  oft',  figuratively  speaking.  They  could 
not  give  the  whole  right  hand  of  fellowship  to  the  true 
Israelitish  seed,  and  they  were  cripples  in  both  hands.  The 
fear  of  man  bringeth  a  snare,  and  they  were  taken  in  this 
snare. 

I  said,  I  remembered  how  it  was  with  Peter  when  our 


1865.]  ANN    BRANSON.  215 

Saviour  came  to  him  to  wash  his  feet.  He  was  not  dis- 
posed to  submit  to  such  a  humiliating  baptism,  supposing 
himself  capable  of  knowing  when,  and  knowing  how  to 
wash  his  own  feet ;  and  no  doubt  thinking  also,  that  it  was 
lowering  to  the  dignity  of  his  Master,  for  Him  thus  to  stoop 
to  wash  his  disciples's  feet,  or  for  his  disciples  to  subject 
their  Lord  to  this  necessity.  But  when  he  was  told,  "  If  I 
wash  thee  not,  thou  hast  no  part  with  me,"  he  was  all  sub- 
mission. After  the  washing  was  over,  Jesus  said  unto  them, 
"  Know  ye  what  I  have  done  to  you  ?  Ye  call  me  Master, 
and  Lord ;  and  ye  say  well ;  for  so  I  am.  If  I,  then,  your 
Lord  and  Master,  have  washed  your  feet,  ye  also  ought  to 
wash  one  another's  feet."  Jesus  did  not  choose  two  or  three 
of  his  disciples  to  wash  the  feet  of  the  rest,  but  they  were  to 
wash  one  another's  feet.  The  disciples  of  Christ  will  feel 
not  only  a  willingness,  but  a  necessity  of  taking  and  re- 
ceiving advice  from  his  fellow  disciples;  he  will  not  feel 
himself  too  clean  or  too  whole  to  be  counselled,  or  reproved 
even  by  the  least  babe  in  Christ.  "He  that  receiveth 
whomsoever  I  send,  receiveth  me,  and  He  that  receiveth 
me,  receiveth  Him  that  sent  me."  Male  and  female  are  all 
one  in  Christ  Jesus. 

After  this  meeting,  a  minister  said  to  me,  "  Thou  hast 
had  a  hard  meeting,  but  there  is  cause  for  thy  exercises  and 
thy  remarks.  Oh,  the  bitter  draughts  my  soul  was  made 
partaker  of  in  many  places,  so  that  I  can  say  with  David, 
"Unless  the  Lord  had  been  my  help,  my  soul  had  almost 
dwelt  in  silence." 

Next  day  the  Quarterly  Meeting  occurred.  It  was  a  very 
large  gathering.  Here,  again  I  had  close  things  to  deliver, 
and  hard  to  be  uttered ;  yet  there  was  more  openness  than 
in  the  Select  Meeting.  Where  there  is  not  a  willingness  to 
hear  the  Truth  spoken,  it  makes  hard  work  for  those  to 


216  JOURNAL     OF  [1865. 

whom  it  is  given  to  declare  the  whole  counsel  of  God, 
whether  the  people  will  hear  or  whether  they  will  forbear. 
I  told  them  that  some,  no  doubt,  were  desirous  we  should 
have  a  good  meeting,  the  language  of  whose  hearts  often 
was,  Oh,  that  we  could  have  such  precious  heart  tendering 
opportunities  as  Friends  had  in  the  rise  of  the  Society.  But 
we  should  remember  that  we  are  a  backslidden  people ;  the 
love  of  the  world,  the  wisdom,  policy,  riches,  pleasures, 
pastimes,  manners,  maxims  and  customs  of  the  world,  have 
gained  ascendency  and  great  place  amongst  us;  many  were 
following  those  things  with  avidity,  which  our  worthy  pre- 
decessors were  led  to  renounce ;  and  were  trampling  under 
foot,  or  esteeming  lightly  those  principles  and  testimonies 
for  which,  and  the  support  of  which,  our  early  Friends  suf- 
fered persecution,  imprisonment  and  death.  Will  not  the 
Lord  judge  for  these  things;  will  not  my  soul  be  avenged 
on  such  a  people  or  nation  as  this?"  The  judgments  of  the 
Lord  are  in  the  nation  and  in  the  Church,  and  yet  we  are 
not  humbled.  But  this  impressive,  gracious  and  inviting 
language  is  still  held  out  to  us,  awaiting  our  acceptance : 
"  Return,  ye  backsliding  children,  and  I  will  heal  your  back- 
slidings."  And  again :  "  Bring  ye  all  the  tithes  into  the 
storehouse,  that  there  may  be  meat  in  mine  house,  and  prove 
me  now  herewith,  saith  the  Lord  of  hosts,  if  I  will  not  open 
you  the  windows  of  heaven,  and  pour  you  out  a  blessing, 
that  there  shall  not  be  room  enough  to  receive  it." 

I  had  to  declare  that  it  was  my  full  belief  there  were 
those  in  that  meeting  who  occupied  high  stations,  to  whom 
this  language  was  applicable :  "  Take  away  from  me  the 
noise  of  thy  songs ;  for  I  will  not  hear  the  melody  of  thy 
viols.  But  let  judgment  run  down  as  waters,  and  righteous- 
ness as  a  mighty  stream."  That  the  leprosy  had  got  into  the 
head,  and  was  of  such  a  nature  as  to  require  those  affected 


1865.]  ANN     BRANSON.  217 

therewith,  to  cover  the  upper  lip,  and  cry,  Unclean !  un- 
clean. The  foregoing  is  only  a  small  part  of  what  I  had 
to  communicate  in  that  meeting. 

In  the  women's  meeting  I  had  a  short  testimony  on  the 
subject  of  dress,  recommending  plainness  and  consistency  in 
this  respect.  After  meeting,  Elizabeth  Scattergood,  an  elder, 
said  to  me.  I  have  good  unity  with  thy  services  in  our  meet- 
ing to-day,  and  should  have  felt  better  satisfied  if  I  had 
expressed  it  publicly,  but,  said  she,  "that  is  the  way  we  get 
along;  in  a  crippled  way  " — meaning  for  the  want  of  being 
faithful.  On  the  day  following,  we  visited  dear  Hannah 
Gibbons,  who  was  in  her  ninety-fifth  year.  Truly  it  was  a 
strengthening,  encouraging  visit  to  my  mind.  She  was  lively 
and  green  in  old  age,  remembered  her  visit  to  Ohio,  made 
in  her  eightieth  year;  could  recollect  much  that  was  said 
and  done  in  our  Yearly  Meeting  at  that  time.  One  thing 
I  think  right  to  mention,  it  being  a  time  of  great  disturb- 
ance and  commotion  on  account  of  the  spread  of  unsound 
doctrines, — the  doctrines  of  Joseph  John  Gurney  and  his 
abettors,  and  there  being  some  Friends  in  attendance  of 
Ohio  Yearly  Meeting  at  that  time,  from  the  Smaller  Body 
(so  called)  of  New  England.  The  Clerks  of  the  women's 
meeting  seemed  determined  to  close  the  Yearly  Meeting 
without  transacting  the  business  thereof,  being  encouraged 
by  those  of  their  way  of  thinking.  When  the  Clerk  was 
about  to  read  the  concluding  Minute,  Hannah  Gibbons  arose 
and  said,  that  although  she  could  not  hear  what  was  before 
the  meeting,  she  felt  it  right  to  say,  she  desired  Friends 
would  be  faithful,  and  if  the  Clerks  did  conclude  the  meet- 
ing without  transacting  the  business,  she  hoped  faithful 
Friends  would  keep  their  seats,  and  attend  to  the  business 
of  the  meeting.  This  honest,  timely  remonstrance,  put  a 
stop  to  their  proceeding  to  conclude  the  meeting,  and  the 
15 


218  JOURNAL     OF  [1865. 

regular  business  was  transacted.  The  Friends  from  New 
England  were  men. 

Fifth  Month  llth. — Attended  the  Select  Quarterly  Meet- 
ing of  ministers  and  elders  for  Cain  Quarterly  Meeting. 
Towards  the  close  of  this  meeting  I  had  to  warn  Friends  to 
be  aware  of  the  Joabs  —  to  remember  Abner  and  Amasa, 
how  they  lost  their  lives  by  his  treacherous  dealings.  "  Died 
Abner,  as  a  fool  dieth  ?  his  hands  were  not  bound  nor  his 
feet  fettered."  Joab  did  not  want  any  one  to  supersede  him 
in  the  king's  business,  and  determined  to  put  all  out  of  the 
way,  who  should  be  appointed  to  go  before  him  ;  hence,  with 
feigned  pretences  towards  the  one,  and  feigned  love  towards 
the  other,  he  slew  both  Abner  and  Amasa.  But  his  gray 
hairs  were  not  permitted  to  go  down  to  the  grave  in  peace, 
though  he  arrayed  himself  conspicuously  on  the  side  of 
king  David,  yet  the  king  gave  a  charge  to  his  son  and  suc- 
cessor concerning  Joab,  because  of  his  treachery  and  wicked- 
ness. And  when  Solomon  commanded  Benaiah  to  smite  him, 
he  took  hold  of  the  horns  of  the  altar,  still  desiring  to  be  con- 
sidered a  true  worshipper  in  the  house  of  God ;  nevertheless, 
he  was  smitten  there,  and  there  he  died. 

How  similar  to  the  conduct  of  Joab  is  the  conduct  of  some 
in  the  present  day,  who  are  professing  to  be  on  the  King's 
side,  and  actuated  by  a  zeal,  but  not  of  or  from  the  Lord  ; 
desirous  of  self-exaltation  or  promotion,  who  would  allure 
from  the  path  of  duty  by  feigned  words  and  fair  speeches, 
those  who  are  on  the  King's  business ;  and  when  they  have 
got  them,  to  turn  aside  from  the  highway  of  holiness,  be- 
hold their  dagger  is  felt,  the  precious  life  is  smitten,  and 
they  have  no  more  strength  to  run  on  the  Lord's  errands, 
or  do  the  King's  business.  Though  these  over-zealous  pre- 
tenders to  religion  care  nothing  for  the  spiritual  lives  of 
those  they  slay,  yet  their  aim  is  to  make  a  great  show  of 


1865.]  ANN     BRANSON.  219 

love  and  good  will,  as  if  the  health  of  the  souls  of  their 
fellow-creatures  was  their  chief  concern.  "Art  thou  in  health 
my  brother,"  said  Joab  to  Amasa,  and  took  him  by  the 
beard  to  kiss  him,  and  then  slew  him,  leaving  him  in  the 
highway  for  all  to  gaze  upon  him. 

12th. — Attended  the  Quarterly  Meeting  for  business.  In 
the  forepart  thereof,  I  had  a  testimony  to  bear  on  the  sub- 
ject of  forgiveness,  and  felt  easy  and  satisfied.  In  the  women's 
meeting  I  had  to  revive  the  language :  "Because  the  daugh- 
ters of  Zion  are  haughty,  and  walk  with  stretched-forth  necks 
and  wanton  eyes,  walking  and  mincing  as  they  go,  and  mak- 
ing a  tinkling  with  their  feet.  Therefore  the  Lord  will  smite 
with  a  scab  the  crown  of  the  head  of  the  daughters  of  Zion, 
and  the  Lord  will  discover  their  secret  parts.  I  admonished 
those  who  were  high  and  lifted  up  in  pride,  to  remember 
what  had  come  upon  many  daughters  in  our  land,  how  they 
had  been  brought  down  from  their  height  and  reduced  to 
penury  within  the  past  four  years  in  consequence  of  the 
ravages  of  civil  war,  and  although  we  had  in  many  places 
been  basking  as  in  the  sunshine  of  prosperity,  whilst  thou- 
sands and  tens  of  thousands  have  been  undergoing  the  keenest 
reverse;  yet  we  must  remember  the  Lord  is  no  respecter  of 
persons,  and  while  we  may  not  be  obliged  to  drink  the  cup 
of  affliction  and  judgment  in  the  same  way  that  others  have 
been  partaking  of;  the  time  will  come,  that  all  who  continue 
indulging  in  the  vain  gratification  of  a  worldly  spirit,  will 
experience  the  judgments  of  the  Lord  to  come  upon  them, 
yea,  the  time  must  and  will  come  upon  all  such,  wherein 
their  secret  parts,  or  the  secret  of  their  hearts,  will  be  dis- 
covered, and  mourning,  lamentation  and  woe  will  be  their 
portion.  The  Lard  will  take  away  from  the  daughters  of 
Ziou  the  bravery  of  their  tinkling  ornaments  and  their 
cauls,  and  their  round  tires  like  the  moon,  &c.  (see  Isaiah, 


220  JOURNAL    OF  [1865. 

chapter  third.  As  this  language  has  been  verified  in  the 
experience  of  many  professing  Christians  of  latter  time  in 
a  remarkable  manner  in  our  beloved  country,  it  should 
have  a  tendency  to  humble  us  as  in  dust  and  ashes  before 
the  Most  High  God,  lest  the  cup  of  his  indignation  be 
handed  to  us  unmingled  with  mercy  and  we  have  to  drink 
the  very  dregs  thereof.  But  the  inviting  language  is  still 
held  out :  "  Return,  ye  backsliding  children,  and  I  will  heal 
your  backslidings." 

13th. — Attended  the  funeral  of  Isaac  Phillips,  an  esteemed 
elder  of  Bradford  Monthly  and  Particular  Meeting.  At  the 
house  of  the  deceased,  before  the  interment,  I  expressed  to  the 
widow  of  this  Friend,  my  belief  that  all  was  well  with  her 
husband,  and  encouraged  her  to  keep  the  faith  and  patience, 
that  she  might  follow  him  to  his  home  in  heaven.  After  the 
corpse  was  laid  in  the  tomb,  Friends  held  a  meeting,  which 
was  very  large,  I  had  nothing  to  communicate ;  Samuel 
Cope  and  Phebe  Roberts  spoke  therein.-  The  same  evening 
we  went  to  West  Chester  and  lodged  with  Elizabeth,  widow 
of  the  late  William  Scattergood.  The  latter  was  a  minister 
in  the  Society  who  stood  much  opposed  to  the  modern  in- 
novations in  doctrine  and  practice,  which  have  made  their 
way  in  the  Society.  Elizabeth  is  a  worthy  elder,  and  treated 
us  with  much  kindness  and  motherly  regard. 

14th. — Attended  West  Chester  Meeting  (it  being  First- 
day).  In  this  meeting  I  found  it  right  to  revive  the  lan- 
guage of  the  Apostle  Peter,  viz :  "But  the  day  of  the  Lord 
will  come  as  a  thief  in  the  night ;  in  the  which  the  heavens 
shall  pass  away  with  a  great  noise,  and  the  elements  shall 
melt  with  fervent  heat ;  the  earth  also,  and  the  works  that 
are  therein,  shall  be  burnt  up.  Seeing  then  that  all  these 
things  shall  be  dissolved,  what  manner  of  persons  ought  ye 
to  be  in  all  holy  conversation  and  godliness.  Looking  for 


1865.]  ANN     BRANSON.  221 

and  hasting  unto  the  coming  of  the  day  of  God,  wherein 
the  heavens,  being  on  fire,  shall  be  dissolved,  and  the  elements 
shall  melt  with  fervent  heat?  Nevertheless  we,  according 
to  his  promise,  look  for  new  heavens  and  a  new  earth, 
wherein  dwelleth  righteousness."  I  said,  does  any  one  here 
suppose  that  the  Apostle  Peter  had  an  allusion  to  a  day,  in 
•which  this  terraqueous  globe  on  which  we  live  should  be 
destroyed  by  fire  ?  I  cannot  suppose  that  he  had  any  such 
meaning.  The  heavens  and  the  earth  here  alluded  to  is  no 
doubt  the  old  fallen  nature  of  man,  against  which  the  fire 
of  the  Lord's  jealousy  is  kindled,  and  the  people  of  the 
world  before  the  flood,  having  been  striven  with  by  the 
Spirit  of  the  Lord  to  bring  them  out  of  that  fallen,  de- 
generate condition,  yet  they  persisting  therein,  God  gave 
them  over  to  a  rebrobate  mind,  and  brought  destruction 
upon  them.  So  all,  in  every  age  of  the  world,  who  with- 
stand the  tender  visitations  of  God's  mercy  to  their  souls, 
and  continue  in  sin  and  transgression  until  his  mercy  is 
withdrawn,  will  experience  the  outpouring  of  his  indigna- 
tion upon  them,  without  respect  of  persons.  For,  by  the 
same  wrord,  the  heavens  and  the  earth  which  now  are,  the 
first  and  fallen  nature  is  reserved  in  chains,  subject  to  the 
fiery  ordeal  and  indignation  of  the  Lord,  but  those  who 
submit  to  the  baptism  of  the  fire  and  Holy  Ghost,  until  all 
the  chaff,  tin  and  rebrobate  silver  is  destroyed — until  all 
the  old  nature  is  purged  out,  these  experience  new  heavens 
and  a  new  earth  ;  new  desires,  new  affections,  all  old  things 
done  away,  and  behold,  all  things  become  new,  and  all 
things  of  God. 

By  thus  bearing  the  ministration  of  condemnation  for  sin 
and  transgression  by  knowing  the  Master  to  sit  as  a  refiner 
and  purifier  of  gold  and  silver,  and  as  a  fuller  with  soap  in 
the  temple  of  the  heart,  becoming  as  passive  clay  in  the 


•222  JOURNAL   or  [1865. 

hands  of  the  potter,  we  hasten  the  coming  of  that  day, 
wherein  the  heavens  being  on  fire  shall  be  dissolved,  and  the 
elements  of  our  old  nature  melt  with  fervent  heat,  the  earth 
also  and  the  works  thereof  shall  be  destroyed.  Seeing  we 
look  for  such  things,  what  manner  of  persons  ought  we  to  be 
in  all  holy  conversation  and  godliness. 

In  the  afternoon  of  this  day  my  companions  attended 
Westtown  Meeting ;  but  I  feeling  no  draft  that  way,  staid 
in  the  neighborhood  of  West  Chester,  at  the  house  of  our 
kind  young  friends  Joseph  and  Elizabeth  Scattergood :  Jo- 
seph is  a  descendant  of  Thomas  Scattergood,  that  devoted 
servant  and  minister  of  the  Lord. 

At  this  house  I  was  sick  for  two  days,  and  was  very  kindly 
treated. 

On  Fourth-day  following  we  went  to  London  Grove,  in 
order  to  attend  the  Western  Quarterly  Meeting. 

On  Fifth-day  attended  the  Select  Quarterly  Meeting,  in 
which  I  was  silent.  Next  day  the  Quarterly  Meeting  for 
business ;  silent  also  in  that ;  but  a  woman  Friend,  from  a 
neighboring  Quarterly  Meeting,  was  very  lengthy,  both  in 
preaching  and  praying.  Towards  the  close  of  the  women's 
meeting  something  arose  on  my  mind  to  deliver,  but  the 
same  woman  again  arose  and  had  considerable  to  say,  which 
put  a  stop  to  my  communication  before  it  commenced.  This 
same  Friend  being  at  another  meeting  which  I  attended, 
again  took  up  most  of  the  time  in  preaching  and  praying; 
also  in  the  Yearly  Meeting  was  several  times  quite  lengthy 
in  her  communications,  particularly  towards  the  close  of  that 
large  assembly.  My  spirit  was  grieved  thereat,  believing 
she  was  going  quite  beyond  her  gift,  if  she  had  a  gift,  which 
I  was  not  prepared  to  question,  or  deny;  but  she  being 
young  in  the  ministry,  my  soul  did  mourn  over  her,  and 
I  felt  willing,  should  the  Lord  require  me  so  to  do,  to  speak 


1865.]  ANN    BRANSON.  223 

to  her  privately  on  account  thereof,  but  no  way  opened  for 
my  relief. 

I  give  this  as  a  warning  to  others,  believing  the  good 
Master  will  keep  those  clear-sighted,  careful  and  watchful, 
who  put  their  trust  in  Him — who  keep  a  single  eye  to  his 
glory,  and  if  at  any  time  they  through  unwatchfulness  step 
aside,  He  will  chasten  them  with  his  rod  of  correction,  caus- 
ing them,  when  they  warm  themselves  with  sparks  of  their 
own  kindling,  to  lie  down  in  sorrow,  feeling  uncomfortable 
for  having  transgressed  his  righteous  law.  They  will  be  in- 
duced, as  their  chief  aim  and  object  is  to  promote  his  glory, 
to  bear  the  rod  of  his  correction,  and  profit  thereby.  "  My 
greatest  concern  (says  William  Penn)  is  for  public  breth- 
ren." Oh,  that  I  myself  may  watch  unto  prayer,  and  that 
continually,  that  this  language  may  not  apply  unto  me,  in 
regard  to  what  I  have  said  on  the  subject  of  the  ministry — 
"  Out  of  thine  own  mouth  will  I  judge  thee." 

After  this  Quarterly  Meeting  was  over  I  informed  the 
Select  members  of  that  meeting,  that  I  felt  a  concern  to  at- 
tend the  meetings  belonging  to  that  Quarter,  to  which  they 
readily  assented,  also  to  appoint  one  meeting  within  their 
limits  amongst  those  not  in  membership  with  us,  which  was 
also  united  with. 

Seventh-day,  the  20th. — Morris  Cope  took  us  to  London 
Britain,  to  attend  that  meeting  on  First-day.  I  had  service 
therein,  both  in  silent  exercise  and  vocal  communication, 
and  felt  satisfied.  After  a  religious  opportunity  in  the  family 
where  we  lodged,  we  went  to  West  Grove,  where  a  meeting 
had  been  appointed  to  be  held  the  next  day,  which  we  at- 
tended. In  this,  as  in  all  the  other  meetings  within  the 
limits  of  this  quarter,  I  had  close  things  to  deliver.  A  world- 
ly spirit  having  got  in,  and  taken  possession  of  the  upper- 
most room  in  the  temple  of  the  hearts  of  many,  yea,  most  of 


224  JOURNAL     OF  [1865. 

our  poor,  scattered  and  peeled  Society ;  and  many  seem  not 
to  know  it ;  but  when  close  things  are  preached  amongst 
them,  it  seems  hard  for  some  to  bear,  particularly  when 
the  leprosy  is  in  the  head,  as  well  as  in  the  other  parts  of 
the  body.  Oh,  what  a  resisting  there  is  of  that  kind  of 
medicine  most  needed,  so  that  the  language  of  my  heart 
often  was,  both  in  and  out  of  meeting,  "  My  soul  is  exceed- 
ing sorrowful  even  unto  death ; "  for  I  found  to  suffer  with 
and  for  the  Truth,  we  must  dwell  very  low,  even  in  places 
where  few  in  these  days  are  willing  to  dwell,  and  withal, 
feeling  my  own  weaknesses  and  insufficiency  for  so  great  a 
work  as  that  of  preaching  to  others,  being  a  dwarf  in  relig- 
ious experience  compared  with  those  who  have  faithfully  fol- 
lowed the  footsteps  of  the  flock  of  Christ's  companions.  I 
was  often  brought  very  low  in  consideration  of  these  things, 
and  yet  I  felt  the  necessity  laid  upon  me  to  do  my  part  even 
in  these  troublous  times,  towards  repairing  the  broken-down 
walls  of  our  Jerusalem. 

I  was  many  times  whilst  engaged  in  this  visit,  pressed  as 
under  the  weight  of  hills  and  mountains.  But  magnified 
and  adored  forever  be  his  name,  who  never  left  me  to  be- 
come a  prey  to  the  dragon,  but  when  He  had  tried  and 
proven  me,  He  did  always  show  himself  to  be  the  same  Al- 
mighty Helper,  who  can  and  will  deliver  all  those  who  put 
their  trust  in  Him,  out  of  all  their  distresses. 

The  last  meeting  we  attended  within  the  limits  of  the 
Western  Quarter,  was  at  Fallowfield — a  very  small  meeting. 
I  was  favored  to  relieve  my. mind  in  this  meeting  to  the 
few  present,  and  felt  clear.  After  meeting,  we  went  to  the 
house  of  a  Friend  belonging  to  that  meeting.  On  my  way 
thither  my  mind  was  greatly  exercised,  so  that  I  could 
scarcely  refrain  from  exclaiming  aloud — "My  soul  is  ex- 
ceeding sorrowful,  even  unto  death."  The  Friends  where 


1865.]  ANN     BRANSON.  225 

we  were  going  being  entire  strangers  to  me,  I  knew  not  why 
I  should  be  thus  exercised,  but  upon  entering  their  house, 
and  even  before  entering  their  dwelling,  the  mystery  began 
to  be  unfolded.  I  found  they  were  wealthy  and  lived  in  a 
style  which  showed  plainly  they  were  not  the  self-denying 
followers  of  the  meek  and  lowly  Jesus,  as  becomes  our  pro- 
fession. They  treated  us  respectfully,  and  whilst  dinner  was 
preparing  I  felt  greatly  exercised  in  spirit,  that  the  Lord 
would  keep  me  faithful  to  his  requirements,  permitting  me 
neither  to  go  beyond,  nor  lag  behind  my  guide. 

After  dinner  I  requested  the  family  collected,  which  was 
done  ;  two  of  the  older  children  were  from  home.  All  the 
wealth  and  grandeur  which  I  saw  there  displayed  felt  to 
me  as  nothing,  yea,  lighter  than  vanity ;  and  I  could  not 
feel  easy  without  alluding  to  the  birth-place  of  our  Saviour. 
Surely  it  was  in  his  power  to  have  presented  himself  to  the 
world  in  that  prepared  body  in  which  he  came  to  do  his 
Father's  will,  in  a  very  different  situation  than  that  of  a 
stable  and  a  manger.  The  birth-place  of  the  Son  of  God  a 
stable !  He  by  whom  all  things  were  made,  condescended 
to  set  us  this  example  of  humility.  He  who  could  have  com- 
manded empires  and  kingdoms,  in  whose  sight  all  nations 
are  as  the  drop  of  a  bucket.  He  is  Lord  of  lords  and  King 
of  kings.  He  regardeth  the  heart.  He  requireth  us  to  take 
his  yoke  upon  us  and  learn  of  Him,  who  is  meek  and  lowly 
in  heart,  that  we  may  find  rest  to  our  souls.  And  He  hath 
declared  that,  "  Whoever  shall  be  ashamed  of  me  and  of  my 
words,  of  him  shall  the  Son  of  man  be  ashamed,  when  He 
shall  come  in  his  own  glory,  and  in  his  Father's,  and  of  the 
holy  angels."  We  must  be  willing  to  bear  the  cross,  if  we 
would  wear  the  crown  of  life  everlasting.  I  felt  strength- 
ened to  declare  the  whole  counsel  to  parents  and  children, 
and  after  a  short  and  fervent  supplication  on  their  behalf, 


226  JOURNAL   OF  [1865. 

my  own,  and  those  who  were  with  me,  I  felt  clear  of  them, 
which  was  indeed  a  great  favor. 

Then  visited  the  family  of  a  brother-in-law  of  these  Friends, 
and  was  favored  to  relieve  my  mind  there  also ;  but  did  not 
see  the  father  of  this  family,  he  being  sick.  We  then  left 
the  town  of  Coatesville,  and  on  our  way  to  Benjamin  Maule's 
(the  Friend  who  took  us  to  Fallowfield),  we  stopped  and 
took  tea  with  a  widow,  who  with  her  daughter  received  us 
kindly.  After  tea,  had  a  religious  opportunity  to  our  mu- 
tual comfort  and  consolation  in  a  degree  sufficient  to  call 
forth  this  acknowledgment, "  Hitherto  hath  the  Lord  helped 
us." 

On  our  way  we  passed  the  house  of  Solomon  Lukens,  who 
with  some  others  in  his  neighborhood  and  elsewhere,  have 
recently  left  their  respective  meetings,  and  set  up  others  in 
which  they  profess  they  can  worship  the  Father  of  Spirits 
more  in  accordance  with  their  own  sense  of  duty,  than  in 
the  meetings  they  have  left.  I  felt  a  great  weight  upon  my 
spirit  as  I  passed  this  house,  and  have  since  thought,  if  I  had 
given  up  to  call  there  at  that  time,  I  might  have  felt  more 
easy ;  but  we  passed  by,  I  concluding  if  the  matter  rested 
with  me,  I  would  return,  but  the  time  never  came  that  I  had 
an  opportunity  to  do  so. 

Lodged  at  B.  M's,  with  a  prospect  of  appointing  a  meet- 
ing at  a  little  village  called  Unionville,  four  or  five  miles 
from  London  Grove.  But  on  Seventh-day  morning,  the 
prospect  closed  up.  I  could  not  account  for  it,  but  felt  it 
safe  to  be  still,  and  told  Friends  I  did  not  see  my  way  clear 
to  appoint  that  meeting.  On  examining  the  time  of  holding 
the  Quarterly  Meetings,  I  found  Burlington  Quarter,  which 
I  was  expecting  to  attend,  came  two  days  earlier  than  we 
expected ;  then  I  saw  why  my  way  closed  up  to  appoint  the 
meeting,  for  we  had  to  take  the  cars  for  Philadelphia  that 


1865.]  ANN     BRANSON.  227 

afternoon  in  order  to  reach  Burlington  in  time  for  the  Quar- 
terly Meeting— our  friend  B.  M.  taking  us  to  the  station. 
With  him  and  his  family  we  parted  in  the  love  of  the  gos- 
pel. He  has  six  daughters,  all  grown,  and  in  the  bloom  of 
youth.  I  thought  them  interesting  young  women.  His  wife, 
and  aged  mother-in-law  were  also  very  kind,  and  we  parted 
in  near  affection  with  these  dear  Friends. 

On  First-day  we  attended  the  Meeting  for  the  Northern 
District  in  the  morning  and  afternoon.  In  forenoon,  after 
Deborah  Brooks  (a  young  Friend)  had  spoken,  not  a  word 
of  which  I  could  hear,  my  mouth  was  opened  to  speak  of 
silent  worship,  and  express  my  belief  that  those  who  worship 
the  Father  in  spirit  and  in  truth,  often  find  these  meetings 
to  be  the  most  strengthening  and  encouraging  of  any  other; 
for  the  minister  of  the  sanctuary  and  true  tabernacle,  who 
is  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  knows  all  our  wants,  and  is  ac- 
quainted with  our  several  situations,  and  where  there  is  a 
looking  unto  Him  in  the  way  of  his  judgments,  bearing  the 
baptism  of  the  Holy  Ghost  and  fire,  He  will  cleanse  the 
temple  of  the  heart,  and  come  in  and  sup  with  us,  and  we 
with  Him.  And  He  will  at  times  and  seasons  break  in 
amongst  those  thus  waiting  upon  Him,  with  this  inviting 
language — "Children  come  and  dine" — that  there  will  be 
left  no  doubt  who  it  is,  knowing  that  it  is  the  Lord  himself, 
thus  inviting  and  feeding  his  disciples  with  the  food  He  hath 
prepared  for  them,  comforting  and  strengthening  their  hearts 
together,  with  his  holy,  life-giving  power  and  presence.  In- 
strumental ministry  which  is  of  his  begetting  and  ordering, 
is  not  to  be  despised,  but  appreciated  according  to  its  worth ; 
that  is  as  instrumental  help,  and  not  to  be  withheld  when 
He  gives  the  command  to  speak,  for  He  still,  as  in  days  past, 
makes  use  of  clay  to  anoint  and  open  the  blind  eyes,  yet 
this  is  not  to  be  compared  to  his  own  immediate  presence 


228  JOURNAL    OF  [1865. 

and  inspeaking  word  nigh  in  the  heart.  I  said  blessed  be 
his  name  forever,  and  let  all  the  world  say  amen. 

After  this  meeting,  several  Friends  spoke  very  kindly 
and  affectionately  to  me,  expressing  they  were  glad  to  see 
me  there  again,  and  one  minister  said  he  was  glad  to  hear 
my  voice  amongst  them  again.  In  the  afternoon,  I  spoke 
of  the  children  of  Israel  who  were  left  in  the  land  after  the 
generality  of  them  had  been  carried  to  Babylon,  and  how 
Ishmael  got  amongst  them  and  slew  Gedaliah  and  some  of 
the  rulers  and  chief  men,  and  the  rest  that  were  left  deter- 
mined to  go  into  Egypt  where  they  might  not  have  hunger 
of  bread,  hear  the  alarm  of  war,  nor  see  the  sword ;  but 
Jeremiah  faithfully  warned  them  against  this  step,  but  go 
they  would  and  did,  and  became  greater  idolaters  than  the 
nations  around,  pouring  out  their  meat  offerings  and  drink 
offerings  to  the  queen  of  heaven.  And  the  things  they 
thought  to  escape  came  upon  them. 

The  same  evening,  took  tea  at  G.  E's.  Some  Friends 
coming  in,  I  had  an  opportunity  to  lay  some  things  before 
them,  to  the  relief  of  my  mind.  The  Hicksite  separation 
was  adverted  to.  I  told  them  that  Gurneyism  was  a  more 
specious  snare  to  lay  waste  Quakerism,  than  ever  Hicksism 
was.  Hicksism  is  open  infidelity,  but  Gurneyism  is  calcu- 
lated to  slide  us  off  the  foundation  so  imperceptibly  that  we 
shall  not  know  it.  The  first  snare  is  more  easily  detected 
and  had  not  many  advocates  ;  the  last  is  working  the  down- 
fall of  the  Society.  Thomas  Shillitoe  said,  if  Friends  suf- 
fered those  doctrines  to  be  circulated  (which  they  have  it  in 
their  power  to  suppress),  the  Society  would  go  gradually 
down  ;  and  it  is  going  down ;  a  linsey  garment  is  spread 
over  us,  but  we  seem  paralyzed,  and  do  not  see  and  feel 
things  as  they  really  are.  I  said,  we  are  looking  abroad  at 
England,  at  the  departures  there,  but  we  are  following  close 


1865.]  ANN     BRANSON.  229 

in  their  footsteps:  Gurneyites  in  principle  being  in  our 
midst  and  no  testimony  against  them  ;  ministers  travelling 
amongst  us  of  that  description  and  no  strength  to  touch  them. 
Will  not  the  Lord  judge  for  these  things?  I  had  a  few 
words  in  supplication  and  the  opportunity  ended,  to  the  re- 
lief of  my  mind,  for  I  felt  that  the  Lord  owned  this  service 
at  my  hands,  and  it  found  a  place  in  the  minds  of  some  of 
those  present. 

Next  day,  went  to  Burlington,  accompanied  by  Charles 
Williams,  an  elder  in  the  city,  who  showed  us  much  kind- 
ness— the  Lord  reward  him  for  it.  Got  to  Burlington  in 
time  to  attend  the  Select  Meeting  at  eleven  clock ;  all  stran- 
gers to  me.  The  meeting  was  pretty  much  gathered  when 
we  went  in.  I  took  my  seat  below  the  ministers'  gallery, 
but  the  man  Friend,  an  elder,  at  whose  house  we  put  up, 
invited  me  up ;  I  thought  best  to  go.  There  were  two  com- 
munications, one  of  considerable  length  from  a  woman,  in 
the  forepart  of  the  meeting. 

_xAfter  the  business  of  the  meeting  was  through,  I  felt  that 
I  should  not  be  clear  without  reviving  this  language,  "Take 
away  from  me  the  noise  of  thy  songs ;  for  I  will  not  hear 
the  melody  of  thy  viols.  But  let  judgment  run  down  as 
waters,  and  righteousness  as  a  mighty  stream."  I  told  them 
I  knew  not  the  name  of  a  minister  in  that  meeting,  but  such 
were  my  feelings,  that  I  believed  this  language  applicable 
to  some  present;  with  some  more  plain  truths,  the  fear  of 
man  was  taken  away,  and  my  only  desire  was  to  serve  the 
Lord.  Hence  the  slightings  and  smitings  were  compara- 
tively easy  to  bear,  for  I  was  often  led  to  remember  how  it 
fared  with  the  Son  of  God,  when  in  that  prepared  body  in 
which  He  came  to  do  his  Father's  will :  He  was  reviled, 
spit  upon,  and  finally  crucified  for  our  sakes. 

The  Jews  professed  to  believe  in  the  prophecies  of  the 


230  JOURNAL    OF  [1865. 

holy  prophets  of  the  Lord  concerning  the  coming  of  the  Son 
of  God  in  the  flesh,  but  when  He  came,  were  the  ones  to 
mock,  deride  and  scoff",  and  finally  put  Him  to  death.  We 
as  a  religious  Society  profess,  not  only  to  believe  He  has 
come  in  the  flesh  and  suffered  for  us,  the  just  for  the  unjust, 
but  we  profess  to  believe  according  to  his  promise  in  his 
second  appearance— his  spiritual  appearance  in  the  heart, 
and  that  too  as  a  reprover  for  sin  and  transgression,  as  well 
as  a  Comforter  to  all  those  who  follow  Him.  A  light  en- 
lightening our  dark  hearts,  offering  salvation  unto  all,  and 
to  those  who  follow  him  He  becomes  the  salvation  of  God 
to  their  souls,  but  to  those  who  turn  from  the  light,  with 
which  He  enlightens  them,  and  follow  their  own  carnal  wills 
and  inclinations,  He  will  be  the  witness  against  them  as  in 
the  parable  of  the  sheep  and  the  goats.  And  although 
these  may  give  a  summary  answer  as  represented  in  the 
parable,  pleading  ignorance  of  having  slighted  the  Lord  of 
life  and  glory,  saying  Lord  (for  they  also  called  Lord),  when 
saw  we  thee  ahungered,  or  athirst,  or  a  stranger,  or  naked, 
or  sick,  or  in  prison,  and  did  not  minister  unto  thee  ?  Then 
shall  He  answer  them,  saying,  "Verily  I  say  unto  you,  in- 
asmuch as  ye  did  it  not  to  one  of  the  least  of  these,  ye  did 
it  not  to  me.  And  these  shall  go  away  into  everlasting 
punishment :  but  the  righteous  into  life  eternal." 

But  how  many  are  there  amongst  our  highly  professing 
Society,  who,  instead  of  living  up  to  our  high  and  holy  pro- 
fession, are  mockers  and  scoffers  (as  really  as  were  the  Jews 
in  the  days  of  his  flesh)  of  the  spiritual  appearance  of  Christ 
in  the  heart.  Oh,  saith  my  soul,  that  there  might  be  a 
turning  unto  the  Lord,  whilst  the  day  of  mercy  lasts,  that 
we  be  not  swept  with  the  bosom  of  destruction,  and  be  like 
the  Jews,  scattered  to  the  four  winds,  because  of  our  rebel- 
lion against  the  light  of  the  Lord. 


1865.]  ANN     BRANSON.  231 

In  the  Quarterly  Meeting  for  business  I  had  a  short  testi- 
mony before  the  shutters  were  closed,  exhorting  to  prostra- 
tion and  humiliation  before  the  Lord,  whose  judgments  are 
and  have  been  in  the  land.  After  the  shutters  were  closed, 
I  informed  women's  meeting,  that  I  was  there  with  a  Minute 
of  unity  and  concurrence  from  the  Monthly  and  Quarterly 
Meeting  of  which  I  am  a  member,  branches  of  Ohio  Yearly 
Meeting,  that  Philadelphia  had  been  in  correspondence  with, 
but  as  my  Minute  had  not  been  read  in  the  Yearly  Meeting, 
I  thought  it  not  right  to  offer  it  to  Subordinate  Meetings 
unless  called  for.  This  information  seemed  satisfactory  to 
all  except  one  member,  and  her  daughter  made  quite  a 
speech,  in  which  she  asserted  that  Philadelphia  had  never 
corresponded  with  the  Yearly  Meeting  of  which  I  was  a  mem- 
ber, and  threw  out  some  very  harsh  and  bitter  words.  Some 
of  her  friends,  however,  were  not  prepared  to  join  in  with 
her  railing,  and  quieted  her  down. 

Philadelphia  has  twice  since  the  separation  in  1854  ad- 
dressed epistles  to  Ohio,  but  it  appears  evident  that  in  order 
to  satisfy  a  class  in  that  Yearly  Meeting  who  are  Gurneyites, 
and  who  never  intend  to  own  the  legitimate  Yearly  Meeting 
of  Ohio,  that  correspondence  was  dropped.  May  the  Lord 
take  the  cause  into  his  own  hands,  whose  cause  it  is,  and 
plead  with  those  who  fear  man  more  than  the  Creator.  I 
had  considerable  service  for  Truth  in  this  meeting,  after 
which  some  Friends  spoke  very  kindly  to  us,  and  desired 
our  company  at  their  houses;  but  we  were  not  at  liberty  to 
tarry  at  that  time. 

Before  leaving  our  place  of  lodging,  I  enquired  of  some 
elders  present,  if  they  would  be  willing  I  should  appoint 
some  meetings  within  the  limits  of  that  quarter,  provided  I 
felt  it  right  to  return  for  that  purpose.  They  answered, 
they  would  have  no  objection,  and  one  of  them  said,  he 


232  JOURNAL    OF  [1865. 

hoped  if  I  felt  like  visiting  their  meetings,  I  would  not  ne- 
glect to  do  so,  or  words  to  this  import.  The  evening  after 
the  close  of  this  Quarterly  Meeting  we  returned  to  Phila- 
delphia, in  order  to  attend  the  Monthly  Meetings  composing 
Concord  Quarter. 

Fifth  Month.— Went  from  Philadelphia  to  West  Chester, 
and  attended  Birmingham  Meeting,  held  at  that  place.  In 
this  meeting  I  had  close,  hard  work,  believing  there  Avas  a 
want  of  faithfulness  on  the  part  of  some  of  the  heads  of  the 
meeting  in  the  support  of  our  Christian  principles  and  testi- 
monies. I  had  to  compare  them  to  a  broken  tooth,  and  a 
foot  out  of  joint,  who  were  not  only  become  unfit  for  service 
themselves,  but  hindered  others  from  a  right  performance 
of  their  respective  offices.  This  touched  some  of  them  to 
the  quick,  the  smitings  of  whose  spirits  was  hard  to  bear. 
After  the  shutters  were  closed,  I  requested  the  liberty  of 
visiting  men's  meeting,  which  was  readily  agreed  to.  Therein 
I  had  to  deal  plainly  with  those  who  had  turned  aside  from 
the  right  path,  expressing  my  belief  that  the  Lord  would 
yet  have  a  people  to  his  praise,  repeating  part  of  the  decla- 
ration of  Francis  Howgill,  viz:  "The  sun  shall  leave  its 
shining  brightness,  and  cease  to  give  light  to  the  world  ; 
and  the  moon  shall  be  altogether  darkness,  and  give  no  light 
unto  the  night ;  the  stars  shall  cease  to  know  their  office  or 
place.  My  covenant  with  day,  night,  times  and  seasons 
shall  sooner  come  to  an  end  than  the  covenant  I  have  made 
with  this  people,  into  which  they  are  entered  with  me,  shall 
be  broken."  After  this  meeting,  I  had  another  precious 
interview  with  dear  old  Hannah  Gibbons. 

Sixth  Month  1st. — Attended  Goshen  Monthly  Meeting. 
Had  some  service  before  the  shutters  were  closed.  In  the 
meeting  my  heart  was  enlarged,  and  my  mouth  opened  in 
the  love  of  the  gospel,  to  encourage  a  faithful  endurance  of 


1865.]  ANN    BRANSON.  233 

the  baptisms  necessary  for  our  refinement  and  preparation 
for  the  work  and  service  of  the  Lord  ;  believing  there  were 
those  present  who  were  designed  to  become  as  mothers  in 
our  Israel.  I  had  to  revive  the  language,  "  Neither  let  the 
eunuch  say,  Behold,  I  am  a  dry  tree.  For  thus  saith  the 
Lord  unto  the  eunuchs  that  keep  my  Sabbaths,  and  choose 
the  things  that  please  me,  and  take  hold  of  my  covenant ; 
even  unto  them  will  I  give  in  mine  house  and  within  my 
walls,  a  place  and  a  name  better  than  of  sons  and  daughters." 
I  said,  it  is  good  to  feel  our  nothingness,  our  entire  inability 
to  do  the  least  good  thing  of  ourselves,  to  be  emptied,  so 
.that  we  shall  appear  in  our  own  natural  view  robbed  and 
spoiled — divested  of  all  the  natural  beauty  and  comeliness, 
lying  prostrate  before  the  Lord  and  apparently  useless. 
Then,  when  He  tries  and  proves  us  until  seven  times  pass  over 
us,  we  shall  know  in  the  Lord's  own  time  and  by  the  might 
of  his  power,  all  old  things  done  away  and  behold  all  things 
made  new.  "  Then  shall  the  lame  man  leap  as  a  hart,  and  the 
tongue  of  the  dumb  sing:  for  in  the  wilderness  shall  waters 
break  out,  and  streams  in  the  desert.  And  the  parched  ground 
shall  become  a  pool,  and  the  thirsty  land  springs  of  water." 
My  heart  was  enlarged  in  the  love  and  liberty  of  the  gospel, 
and  I  may  say  in  demonstration  of  the  spirit,  to  speak  the 
truth  amongst  them,  greatly  to  the  peace  of  my  soul,  and  to 
the  refreshment  and  encouragement  of  others.  Next  day 
attended  Concord  Monthly  Meeting.  The  same  evening  rode 
to  Birmingham  to  the  house  of  our  Friends,  Aaron  and 
Susan  Sharpless.  Next  day,  the  3rd  of  the  month,  rode  to 
Wilmington,  and  attended  their  meeting  on  the  4th,  it  being 
First-day.  I  was  engaged  in  this  meeting  in  testimony  and 
supplication,  to  the  relief  and  peace  of  my  mind,  and  I 
believe,  to  the  satisfaction  of  those  visited.  My  way  was 
unexpectedly  opened  amongst  them,  and  the  Truth  chained 
16 


234  JOURNAL    OF  [1865. 

down  opposing  spirits.  Oh,  how  necessary  for  ministers  to 
cast  all  their  care  and  burdens  on  the  Lord ;  truly  He  doth 
great  things  for  them  who  serve  and  fear  Him,  and  this  my 
soul  knoweth  right  well.  After  this  meeting  a  Hicksite 
preacher  by  the  name  of  Bancroft,  came  to  our  lodgings  to 
talk  with  us,  and  offer  us  some  pamphlets,  which  had  been 
recently  published  by  some  of  their  members,  designing  and 
desiring  to  bring  about  a  re-union  of  Friends  and  Hicksites. 
I  told  the  man  that  they,  the  Hicksites,  must  disown  the 
doctrines  of  Elias  Hicks  before  we  could  own  them  as 
Friends.  I  had  heard  Elias  Hicks  preach,  and  had  read 
his  sermons,  and  considered  him  a  deist.  That  I  heard  Elias 
say  in  our  meeting  at  Flushing,  that  if  it  were  not  for  reve- 
lation, we  could  not  distinguish  a  man  from  a  horse,  or  a 
horse  from  a  tree.  I  told  him  I  had  conversed  with  some 
of  their  members,  who  said  they  were  not  in  unity  with  the 
Hicksites,  but  being  queried  and  questioned  with  relative  to 
the  Son  of  God,  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  would  not  own  Him 
to  be  anything  more  than  a  good  man,  as  any  other  man 
might  be  ;  also  denying  that  there  was  any  evil  agent  dis- 
tinct from  man  as  a  tempter,  the  devil — Satan — as  termed 
in  the  Holy  Scriptures.  I  found  I  must  come  to  points 
with  this  man,  showing  the  why  and  wherefore  we  could  not 
own  them,  till  they  renounced  the  deistical  doctrines  which 
caused  the  separation.  We  parted  on  friendly  terms,  after 
a  very  free,  and  pretty  full  discourse  on  the  subject.  Aaron 
Sharpless,  the  Friend  who  took  us  to  Wilmington,  expressed 
his  entire  satisfaction  with  the  interview.  Language  and 
utterance  were  given  me  to  clear  myself  of  any  compromise, 
which  seems  to  be  the  desire  of  the  Hicksites  to  make  with 
Friends,  that  is,  that  all  who  pro/ess  to  be  Friends  should 
meet  together  as  one  Society,  irrespective  of  the  principles 


1865.]  ANN    BRANSON.  235 

they  may  hold.  This  will  never  do,  for  the  Lord  will  not 
accept  such  a  mixture. 

From  Wilmington  we  went  back  to  Birmingham,  where 
we  attended  an  appointed  meeting  on  the  5th.  In  this 
meeting,  as  elsewhere,  I  had  close  things  to  deliver  to  those 
who  had  forsaken  the  right  path,  and  those  who  were  re- 
fusing to  listen  to  the  voice  of  instruction.  I  said,  the 
eleventh  hour  call  does  not  always  come  late  in  life.  Peter 
Yarnall  experienced  the  very  last  call  of  mercy  in  his 
youthful  years,  and  he  was  shown  if  he  did  not  then  yield, 
the  day  of  his  visitation  would  be  over.  So  it  seemed  to  me 
some  then  present  were  very  near  their  last  visitation  ;  it 
was  time  for  them  to  look  around  them,  and  close  in  with 
the  offers  of  mercy  before  it  was  too  late.  The  meeting 
ended  in  supplication  to  the  Father  of  mercies  for  the  con- 
tinuation of  his  pardoning  grace. 

Dined  at  David  Garret's  with  a  considerable  number  of 
Friends,  young,  as  well  as  those  more  advanced  in  years. 
Soon  after  entering  this  house,  my  mind  became  very  much 
exercised,  and  some  considerations  took  hold  of  my  feelings, 
which  I  was  not  able  to  put  from  me,  without  requesting  a 
religious  opportunity  with  all  present,  some  being  about  to 
leave.  Soon  after  dinner,  we  accordingly  sat  down  together. 
I  felt  that  I  must  neither  turn  to  the  right  hand  nor  left.  I 
must  not  do  anything  to  make  my  communication  more 
agreeable  and  acceptable  to  the  natural  mind  than  the  Lord 
would  have  it  to  be.  So  it  came  before  me  to  say, "  Friends, 
if  there  are  any  here,  who  undertake  to  keep  fair  sides  with 
all  the  hickory  Quakers  they  meet,  it  will  keep  them  busy, 
and  besides,  they  will  be  in  danger  of  losing  their  spiritual 
life  by  such  a  course.  I  said,  the  pathway  of  some  is  thickly 
strewed  with  temptations.  There  is  need  of  keeping  the  eye 
single  to  the  Lord.  There  are  those  who  would  draw  us 


236  JOURNAL    OF  [1865. 

into  their  snare.  Gurneyisin  is  in  our  midst;  we  had  need 
to  take  heed.  This  caution  may  be  as  needful  for  myself  as 
any  present,  yet  I  durst  not  withhold  it.  I  had  considerable 
to  say  in  a  close,  warning  manner  with  respect  to  the  situa- 
tion of  society.  I  said,  I  had  felt  the  smitings  of  some  spirits 
which  was  harder  to  bear  than  open  rebuke.  After  this  op- 
portunity, I  felt  that  I  had  incurred  the  displeasure,  or  dis- 
unity of  some,  who  before  had  shown  me  much  kindness, 
and  I  subsequently  found  I  was  not  mistaken  in  my  appre- 
hensions. 

Next  day  attended  an  appointed  meeting  at  Concord,  it 
being  the  Third  of  the  week  and  6th  of  the  month  ;  on 
Fourth,  Fifth  and  Sixth-days  of  this  week  was  at  Middle- 
town,  Chester  and  Chichester  Meetings.  On  Seventh-day 
rode  from  Chichester  to  Whiteland,  eighteen  miles,  and  put 
up  with  our  friends,  Isaac  and  Abigail  Hall.  Attended  their 
meeting  on  First-day,  which  was  small,  and  had  some  ser- 
vice to  the  relief  of  my  mind.  In  the  afternoon  of  this  day 
we  visited  some  families.  The  first  was  a  Friend  who  had 
left  Whiteland  Meeting,  and  sits  down  at  home  alone ;  al- 
leging, that  Philadelphia  Yearly  Meeting  has  lost  its  stand- 
ing as  a  Yearly  Meeting  of  Friends,  and  that  he  can  have 
no  fellowship  with  meetings  subordinate  thereto.  I  cleared 
my  mind  towards  him  and  his  family,  and  left  them  with  a 
sorrowful  heart,  believing  him  to  be  under  a  mistake  as  to 
the  thing  required ;  whilst,  at  the  same  time  we  are  bound 
to  admit  that  many  stumblings  are  by  the  leaders  of  that 
Yearly  Meeting,  cast  in  the  way,  both  of  the  honest,  sincere 
seekers,  as  well  as  those  who  are  seeking  occasion  of  stum- 
bling. I  told  this  individual  I  believed  he  was  mistaken, 
and  not  following  the  path  of  duty  in  leaving  his  meeting. 

Xext  we  visited  three  aged  Friends ;  had  a  religious  op- 
portunity with  them,  and  went  to  see  George  Malin,  a  Friend 


1865.]  ANN     BRANSON.  237 

nearly  ninety  years  old,  he  beiug  on  his  death-bed,  and  could 
neither  see  nor  speak ;  though  he  appeared  sensible.  I  said 
to  him  that  I  trusted  his  sufferings  would  soon  be  over,  and 
was  led  to  supplicate  for  his  happy  release,  and  for  those  in 
health  around  his  bed,  that  we  might  be  prepared  for  the 
final  summons.  After  an  opportunity  with  his  nephew,  who 
was  left  with  a  little  family  to  care  for,  I  felt  peaceful  and 
easy  to  leave,  and  returned  to  Isaac  Hall's.  A  Friend  and 
her  husband  coming  in,  we  had  a  silent  sitting  for  a  time 
together,  when  something  arose  for  communication,  to  which 
I  yielded,  and  felt  peaceful  and  easy  afterwards. 

A  song  of  praise  did  indeed  fill  my  heart,  and  I  was  en- 
couraged to  press  onwards  towards  the  mark  for  the  prize 
of  the  high  calling  of  God  in  Christ  Jesus.  The  substance 
of  my  communication  was  this — that  Mary  Magdalene,  and 
the  other  women,  that  followed  Jesus  afar  off,  when  He  was 
taken  to  be  crucified  ;  after  his  death  still  lingered  around 
and  near  the  sepulchre.  Jesus  arose  from  the  dead,  showed 
himself  first  to  Mary  Magdalene,  out  of  whom  He  had  cast 
seven  devils,  bade  her  go  and  tell  his  disciples  that  He  was 
risen  from  the  dead — joyful  news.  In  this  dark  and  cloudy 
day,  when  Jesus  is  spiritually  put  to  open  shame — when  the 
leadings  and  guidings  of  his  Spirit  are  neglected  and  slighted 
— when  his  true  disciples  have  to  mourn  and  weep — when 
everything  like  comfort  and  consolation  is  withdrawn,  and 
the  enemies  of  Truth  are  permitted  to  rejoice,  it  is  meet  we 
should  keep  the  faith  and  patience  of  the  saints.  It  is  neces- 
sary if  we  would  experience  our  joy  and  consolation  to 
abound  in  Christ  Jesus,  to  cleave  to  that  little  measure  and 
manifestation  of  the  Spirit  still  vouchsafed,  even  in  the  most 
dark  and  gloomy  hour :  "  For  the  oppression  of  the  poor,  for 
the  sighing  of  the  needy,  now  will  I  arise,  saith  the  Lord." 
If  these  his  disciples  had  not  kept  near  Him — had  not 


238  JOURNAL    OF  [1865. 

waited  for  the  consolations  of  his  Spirit — had  not  mourned 
as  true  mourners,  do  we  believe  they  would  have  ever  been 
permitted  to  become  living  witnesses  of  his  glorious  resur- 
rection, or  preachers  thereof?  Blessed  be  God  !  He  will 
not  leave  any  comfortless  who  put  their  trust  in  Him.  He 
will  more  than  compensate  them  for  all  their  sorrow  and 
grief  on  account  of  the  sad  state  of  things  in  the  Church 
and  State  as  they  cleave  to  Him ;  though  it  may  seem  for  a 
time,  that  the  hour  and  power  of  darkness  is  so  great,  that 
no  hope  is  left ;  that  things  will  change  for  the  better.  Yet 
He  who  burst  the  bonds  of  death,  because  it  was  not  pos- 
sible he  should  be  holden  of  them  :  He  is  Lord  of  lords 
and  King  of  kings ;  He  can  and  will  do  great  and  wonderful 
things  for  those  who  put  their  trust  in  Him.  Blessed,  praised 
and  magnified  be  his  adorable  name,  saith  my  soul,  forever 
and  forever. 

Second-day,  the  12th  of  the  Month — I  felt  my  mind  drawn 
to  visit  the  families  within  the  limits  of  Goshen  Monthly 
Meeting,  who  had  recently  withdrawn  from  their  respective 
meetings,  and  joined  in  fellowship  with  those  who  have  else- 
where come  to  the  conclusion  that  Philadelphia  and  Ohio 
Yearly  Meetings  are  no  longer  bodies  rightly  claiming  the 
name  of  Friends.  The  first  family  we  visited  was  that  of 
R.  E.  He  and  his  wife  and  children  appeared  satisfied  with 
the  visit.  I  laid  before  them  the  danger  of  setting  up  our 
individual  judgments  respecting  whole  bodies  of  Friends ; 
that  we  ought  to  be  able  to  give  substantial  reasons  for  so 
manifestly  disclaiming  any  unity  therewith  before  leaving. 
I  had  not  been  able  to  see  the  propriety  of  this  step,  and 
believed  it  would  lead  farther  and  farther  into  the  wilder- 
ness. I  exhorted  them  to  reconsider  their  movements,  to 
turn  unto  the  Lord,  look  for  help  from  Him,  and  I  believed 
they  would  see  their  mistake.  That  it  was  for  want  of 


1865.]  ANN    BRANSON.  239 

abiding  in  the  everlasting  faith  and  patience  of  the  saints, 
that  they  had  taken  this  step.  The  mother  of  this  family 
expressed  her  thankfulness  for  the  visit,  and  I  was  well  satis- 
fied in  having  performed  it. 

We  next  went  to  Jonathan  Cope's,  who  did  not  incline  to 
accept  such  a  visit,  so  we  did  not  get  out  of  the  carriage. 
Thence  to  Aaron  Garrett's;  he  also  refused  us  admittance 
on  the  ground  proposed,  that  is,  a  religious  visit,  so  we  left 
them,  but  felt  satisfied  that  I  had  made  the  attempt. 

Dined  and  lodged  at  the  house  of  our  friends  Jacob  and 
Phebe  Roberts.  They  seemed  to  bid  us  welcome  with  the 
whole  heart.  Phebe  is  a  minister,  and  Jacob  an  elder. 
Oh,  that  the  Lord  may  keep  the  little  ones  in  the  hollow  of 
his  holy  hand,  from  being  betrayed  by  fair  words  and  smooth 
speeches. 

On  the  morning  of  the  13th,  left  the  house  of  our  kind 
friends  Jacob  and  Phebe  Roberts,  in  order  to  attend  the 
Quarterly  Meeting  of  Haddonfield.  During  the  evening 
previous  to  leaving,  I  had  an  interesting  and  satisfactory 
opportunity  with  this  family.  My  mind  was  drawn  into 
living  exercise  for  the  dear  children,  and  my  heart  enlarged 
to  speak  many  gospel  truths  in  their  hearing.  Phebe  ex- 
pressed her  thankfulness  for  the  visit,  and  I  believe  she  felt 
it  as  she  expressed  it.  In  the  afternoon  went  from  Philadel- 
phia to  Moorestown,  N.  J. 

On  the  14th,  attended  the  Select  Quarterly  Meeting  held 
at  Upper  Evesham,  in  which  I  had  considerable  to  commu- 
nicate, but  felt  the  spirit  of  opposition  strong  against  me,  so 
that  my  service  was  indeed  laborious,  but  felt  satisfied  in 
having  endeavored  to  relieve  my  mind  faithfully  amongst 
them.  I  had  to  advert  to  and  dwell  somewhat  upon  the 
necessity  of  becoming  humbled  before  the  Lord ;  letting  Him 
turn  his  hand  upon  us,  then  if  He  wash  us,  we  will  be  wil- 


240  JOURNAL    OF  [1865. 

ling  to  receive  counsel  from  the  very  least  child,  willing  to 
take  advice  as  well  as  give. 

Oh,  the  self-righteous,  self-exalted  spirit  that  prevails  in 
many  ministers,  as  well  as  elders,  in  our  poor  Society ;  not 
more  in  that  place  than  in  many  others.  After  meeting, 
dined  with  David  Darnell  and  wife,  who  treated  us  very 
kindly.  Lodged  with  Mary  Borton  and  daughters;  the 
mother  was  in  a  declining  state  of  health,  but  very  peaceful 
and  resigned. 

Next  day,  at  Haddonfield  Quarterly  Meeting.  My  mind 
was  under  great  exercise  in  that  large  meeting ;  bearing  it 
until  I  felt  it  required  of  me  to  speak.  I  arose,  with  these 
words — Oh,  Haddonfield,  Haddonfield,  the  Lord  hath  a 
controversy  with  thee;  the  multitude  of  thy  chariots,  thy 
horses  and  horsemen  cannot  save  thee  when  the  Lord  riseth 
up  to  plead  with  thee.  Then  I  said  in  substance,  that  the 
day  of  the  Lord  must  come  upon  all  that  is  high  and  lifted 
up,  upon  all  the  oaks  of  Bashan,  upon  all  the  cedars  of 
Lebanon,  and  upon  all  pleasant  pictures,  upon  every  one 
that  is  high  and  lifted  up,  and  he  shall  be  brought  low.  I 
had  a  short,  impressive  warning  to  deliver  to  them,  exhort- 
ing them  to  flee  to  the  strong  tower  for  safety,  to  humble 
themselves  before  the  Lord,  that  it  might  be  well  with  them, 
&c.  After  the  shutters  were  closed,  I  had  an  encouraging 
testimony  for  the  sincere  and  upright  hearted,  in  and  under 
which  my  mind  was  strengthened  and  encouraged  with  this 
language  — "  Why  sayest  thou,  oh  Jacob,  and  speakest,  oh 
Israel,  my  way  is  hid  from  the  Lord,  and  my  judgment  is 
passed  over  from  my  God  ?  Hast  thou  not  known,  hast 
thou  not  heard,  that  the  everlasting  God,  the  Lord,  the 
Creator  of  the  ends  of  the  earth,  fainteth  not,  neither  is 
weary  ?  There  is  no  searching  of  his  understanding.  He 
giveth  power  to  the  faint ;  and  to  them  that  have  no  might 


1865.]  ANN    BRANSON.  241 

He  increaseth  strength.  Even  the  youths  shall  faint  and 
be  weary,  and  the  young  men  shall  utterly  fall.  But  they 
that  wait  upon  the  Lord  shall  renew  their  strength  ;  they 
shall  mount  up  with  wings  as  eagles;  they  shall  run  and  not 
be  weary,  and  they  shall  walk  and  not  faint." 

My  heart  was  enlarged  in  the  love  of  the  gospel  towards 
those  present  who  were  pressed  down  under  discouragement, 
and  they  were  encouraged  to  lift  up  their  heads  in  hope.  I 
felt  greatly  relieved  after  this  meeting  and  very  peaceful  in 
mind.  Many  Friends  spoke  affectionately  to  us  after  meet- 
ing, toward  whom  the  salutation  of  gospel  love  was  felt  to 
flow  without  respect  of  persons. 

Dined  at  Henry  Roberts',  where  many  Friends  came. 
After  dinner,  had  a  religious  opportunity  with  a  large  com- 
pany. I  encouraged  the  weary  and  heavy  laden,  and  faint 
hearted,  to  trust  in  the  Lord. 

Took  tea  at. ,  but  felt  little  like  eating,  or  enjoying 

conversation  of  any  kind,  believing  I  should  not  be  permit- 
ted to  leave  that  house  peacefully  without  requesting  a  re- 
ligious opportunity  with  the  family  and  those  present,  of 
whom  there  was  a  considerable  number.  I  had  a  close 
warning  to  some  present  to  set  their  spiritual  houses  in  order 
for  the  final  reckoning.  Then  felt  clear  to  leave  them,  and 
returned  to  Moorestown,  and  lodged  with  our  kind  friend 
Hannah  Warrington,  where  we  made  our  home  during  our 
stay  within  the  limits  of  that  Quarterly  Meeting.  Several 
Friends,  mostly  aged  and  infirm,  unable  to  get  out,  wished 
us  to  make  them  a  visit ;  and  I  feeling  it  right  to  do  so,  on 
Sixth-day  afternoon,  the  16th,  we  made  several  calls  on  the 
class  mentioned.  Seventh-day  was  employed  mostly  in  the 
same  way,  and  I  thought  rightly  so.  It  was  truly  an  inter- 
esting visit  to  me,  as  I  thought  I  saw  the  hand  of  the  Lord 


242  JOURNAL    OF  [1865. 

in  it,  leading  us  from  place  to  place,  and  I  think  generally 
acceptable  to  the  visited. 

First-day,  the  18th. — Went  from  Moorestown  to  Haddon- 
field,  six  miles,  to  attend  that  meeting.  My  mind  was  deeply 
exercised  therein,  but  I  was  silent  throughout.  A  woman 
Friend  from  a  neighboring  Quarterly  Meeting,  took  up  most 
of  the  time  in  preaching  and  praying.  It  was  a  very  trying 
meeting  to  me,  believing  the  cause  was  hurt  by  this  indi- 
vidual. 

Dined  at  Josiah  Evans'.  After  a  religious  opportunity  in 
this  family,  went  to  Joseph  Snowden's.  He  having  decidedly 
opposed  in  their  Quarterly  Select  Meeting,  the  liberty  I 
asked,  to  visit  by  appointment  (when  not  convenient  to  at- 
tend as  they  came  in  course)  the  meetings  belonging  to 
Haddonfield  Quarter,  and  to  appoint  some  amongst  those 
not  in  membership  with  us.  I  told  Joseph  and  his  wife,  I 
had  no  object  in  coming  to  see  them,  only  to  Comply  with  a 
sense  of  duty  impressed  upon  my  mind.  Now,  if  they  had 
any  counsel  for  me,  whatever  it  might  be,  I  was  willing  to 
hear  it.  I  felt  disposed  to  take  the  advice  of  the  elders  at 
home  and  abroad,  and  if  they  thought  I  ought  to  return 
home,  they  need  not  be  afraid  to  tell  me  so ;  1  had  always 
loved  good  order  and  discipline,  and  tried  to  adhere  to  it. 
Joseph  replied,  that  he  had  no  advice  to  give,  but  to  en- 
courage me  to  attend  to  the  pointings  of  Truth  ;  he  did  not 
wish  me  to  return  home.  I  told  him  I  had  been  endeavor- 
ing to  follow  the  pointings  of  Truth,  and  I  believed  that  led 
me  to  ask  permission  of  the  Select  members  of  that  Quar- 
terly Meeting,  to  visit  the  meetings  within  its  limits  to  which 
he  was  strongly  opposed.  He  said,  if  I  had  come  the  week 
before  I  could  have  attended  all  the  Monthly  Meetings  as 
they  occurred.  I  let  him  know  that  was  not  in  the  line  of 
my  duty ;  and  further  told  him  if  he  could  feel  free  for  me 


1865.1  ANN     BRANSON.  243 

j  * 

to  go  to  the  meetings  as  they  came  in  course,  and  had  unity 
enough  to  encourage,  or  be  willing  I  should  do  so,  I  could 
see  no  real  ground  to  object  to  the  appointment  of  meetings. 
I  thought  he  felt  himself  in  a  narrow  place,  but  I  put  the 
burden  fairly  on  his  shoulders,  and  after  some  religious  com- 
munication to  his  son  and  daughter,  I  left  them,  feeling  thank- 
ful I  had  been  helped  to  make  that  visit,  and  to  be  faithful 
whilst  there.  Oh,  how  sweet  and  precious  the  Truth  is  as  we 
follow  it;  how  it  leads  into  faithfulness,  meekness,  and  all 
that  is  lovely.  Returned  to  Moorestown  that  evening,  but 
not  without  apprehensions  that  I  had  better  remained  at 
Haddonfield  a  little  longer. 

Next  morning,  the  20th  of  Sixth  Month,  after  a  religious 
opportunity  with  dear  Hannah  Warrington,  her  brother-in- 
law  and  two  nieces,  we  left  Moorestown  for  Philadelphia. 

On  the  21st  attended  the  Monthly  Meeting  for  the  West- 
ern District.  Truly  it  was  a  very  laborious,  trying  service 
that  fell  to  my  lot.  It  seemed  as  if  everything  was  arrayed 
against  me,  and  suffering  both  before  and  after  the  shutters 
were  closed,  was  my  meat  and  my  drink.  One  woman  Friend 
(and  I  think  the  only  female  elder  there),  showed  us  much 
kindness,  desiring  my  encouragment,  said  rny  service  was 
hard  amongst  them,  but  she  believed  called  for. 

My  way  now  seemed  hedged  in  on  every  side,  and  I  found 
patience  and  faith  were  necessary  in  no  small  degree,  in 
order  to  keep  the  right  track.  I  had  been  looking  towards 
attending  some  meetings  in  the  limits  of  Salem  Quarter,  but 
the  enemy  was  permitted  to  buffet  me  sore,  and  I  was  let 
down  into  the  low  dungeon. 

Fifth-day  22nd. — Attended  Arch  Street  Meeting,  and  was 
silent  therein.  Went  to  Joseph  Walton's  in  the  afternoon 
and  remained  there  till  First-day,  not  seeing  anything  to  do, 
save  making  a  visit  to  a  young  Friend,  who  resided  with  her 


244  JOURNAL    OF  [1865. 

brother  in  the  city.  There  we  had  a  free  social  visit,  and 
also  some  communication  on  religious  subjects. 

First-day,  attended  Arch  Street  Meeting,  and  had  some 
service  therein,  and  felt  satisfied.  Dined  at  Joseph  S.  El- 
kinton's  and  went  with  them  to  the  afternoon  meeting  for 
the  Southern  District,  but  had  nothing  to  communicate. 
Lodged  at  Joseph  Walton's.  Believing  it  to  be  required 
of  me  to  visit  the  meetings  in  the  limits  of  Salem  Quarter, 
we  set  out  on  Second-day  afternoon  the  26th,  for  Wood- 
bury  ;  got  there  in  the  evening  and  lodged  at  Carlton 
Stokes'.  That  night  I  was  quite  ill,  so  that  I  slept  but 
little,  and  thought  it  not  improbable  that  my  remains  might 
be  laid  there,  being  threatened  with  a  severe  turn  of  the 
dysentery.  But  my  mind  was  kept  so  calm  and  quiet,  that 
a  song  of  praise  filled  my  heart,  and  I  could  desire  nothing 
more  than  the  Lord  granted  me  at  that  time. 

Next  morning  remained  in  bed  until  meeting  time,  then 
arose  and  went  to  meeting,  though  scarcely  able  to  walk. 
It  was  their  Monthly  Meeting,  and  I  could  say  I  was  glad 
1  was  there,  and  others  responded  thereto.  After  meeting, 
took  the  cars  to  Salem.  Were  met  by  William  Carpenter, 
who  took  us  to  his  house,  where  we  were  kindly  treated  by 
himself  and  wife. 

Next  day  attended  Salem  Monthly  Meeting,  which  was 
very  small,  it  being  harvest  time,  and  many  absent.  I  had 
some  service  in  the  way  of  the  ministry,  but  felt  after  meet- 
ing as  if  my  work  there  was  not  done.  Dined  at  Martha 
Wistar's.  and  after  resting  awhile  rode  seventeen  miles  to 
Greenwich ;  our  kind  Friend,  William  Carpenter,  taking 
us  in  his  conveyance.  Reached  Clarkson  Sheppard's  about 
dark,  and  were  truly  thankful.  We  were  well  cared  for 
every  way.  Hospitality  without  grudging  or  dissimulation, 
was  shown  us  in  no  small  measure.  Next  day  attended 


1865.]  ANN    BRANSON.  245 

their  Monthly  Meeting,  in  which  I  had  close  service,  which 
has  fallen  to  ray  lot  very  often  in  this  visit,  so  that  very 
little  pleasant  bread  has  been  my  portion  in  the  various 
meetings  which  we  have  attended,  save  as  I  have  been  led 
with  the  eye  of  faith  to  behold,  that  when  this  shaking  is 
over,  when  the  Lord  shall  have  melted  and  tried  us,  he  will 
beautify  his  sanctuary  and  make  the*  place  of  his  feet  glo- 
rious amongst  this  people  as  in  the  gathering  of  this  society. 
We  made  several  family  visits  at  Greenwich,  and  felt  peace 
and  satisfaction.  Returned  to  Salem  on  Sixth-day  evening, 
our  kind  friend,  Wilmon  Bacon,  going  with  us.  We  were 
late  in  starting  and  were  out  after  night,  there  being  as 
great  a  storm  of  rain  as  ever  I  was  in ;  the  night  was  ex- 
tremely dark,  only  when  flashes  of  lightning  enlightened 
the  darkness,  but  our  Lord  and  Master  brought  us  through 
without  accident.  I  regretted  not  stopping  all  night  where 
we  took  tea,  believing  it  was  a  miss,  but  fearing  the  friend 
who  was  with  us  was  in  haste  to  return,  it  being  harvest  time, 
I  did  not  mention  my  feelings,  and  so  went  rather  contrary 
to  my  best  judgment.  I  have  always  found  the  Master's 
intimations  are  to  be  preferred,  before  all  and  everything 
else.  Attended  Salem  Meeting  on  First-day.  Great  were 
the  conflicts  of  my  spirit,  both  before  and  after  going  into 
this  meeting,  believing  hard  things  would  be  required. 
After  sitting  a  considerable  time  under  deep  exercise,  I 
arose  with  this  query,  whether  any  did  suppose  they  could 
stay  at  home  in  the  middle  of  the  week  and  attend  to  their 
domestic  concerns,  and  come  to  meeting  on  First-day  and  go 
to  sleep,  and  thus  offer  acceptable  sacrifice  to  God  ?  And 
some  such  were  very  critical  too  in  their  observations,  had 
nice  ears,  liked  to  hear  eloquent  sermons,  when  they  heard 
preaching ;  but  I  had  a  message  for  them  in  plain,  simple 
language.  And  then  the  Lord  required  me  to  take  the 


246  JOURNAL    OF  [1865. 

shawl  off  my  shoulders  and  tell  them  that  thus  would  the 
Lord  strip  them  of  the  covering  wherewith  they  were  cov- 
ered. "  Woe  unto  him  that  covereth  himself  with  a  cover- 
ing, but  not  of  my  spirit  saith  the  Lord."  He  is  not  to  be 
mocked ;  none  can  wrest  themselves  out  of  his  holy  hands, 
when  once  he  shall  arise  to  plead  with  them  in  judgment 
unmingled  with  mercy.  I  exhorted  those  who  were  thus  at 
ease,  to  make  haste,  arise,  and  shake  themselves  from  the  dust 
of  the  earth  before  it  is  too  late.  The  Lord  is  still  disposed  to 
have  mercy.  "Whilst  ye  have  the  light,  walk  in  the  light,  work 
whilst  it  is  day,  for  the  night  cometh  wherein  no  man  can 
work."  When  mercy  and  grace  are  withdrawn  then  we  are 
left  in  darkness,  and  have  no  more  opportunity  to  work  out 
our  soul's  salvation.  I  spoke  encouragingly  to  those  who 
were  striving  lawfully  for  the  mastery  over  the  corruptions 
of  their  fallen  nature,  and  over  the  temptations  of  the  devil, 
believing,  there  were  such  present.  The  Lord  did  indeed 
weigh  the  mountains  in  scales,  and  the  hills  in  a  balance, 
and  give  me  that  day  to  see  and  feel  that  there  is  nothing 
too  hard  for  Him  to  do.  For  my  soul  was  bowed  down  as 
under  the  weight  of  mountains ;  but  thou  O  Lord,  didst 
support  me,  I  was  as  one  pressed  out  of  measure,  but  thy 
hand  did  take  hold  of  me  and  kept  me  from  sinking  below 
hope.  Let  none  ever  distrust  the  power  of  the  Lord  in  the 
hour  of  great  extremity.  "  Trust  in  the  Lord,  O  my  soul ! 
yea,  trust  in  the  Lord,  for  in  the  Lord  Jehovah  is  everlast- 
ing strength." 

I  left  this  meeting  quiet  and  easy  in  mind,  after  which  I 
called  at  the  house  of  a  member  in  Salem.  It  was  impressed 
upon  my  mind  that  it  was  required  of  me  to  ask  the  father 
and  mother  of  this  family  to  sit  down  awhile  in  silence  with 
us.  I  had  been  before  impressed  that  I  was  the  subject  of 
scorn  and  derision  by  the  woman  of  this  house,  which  made  it 


1865.]  ANN    BRANSON.  247 

hard  for  me  to  give  up  to  this  requisition ;  but  the  Lord 
made  hard  things  easy,  and  bitter  things  sweet.  I  felt  that 
I  must  not  turn  to  the  right  hand,  nor  to  the  left,  but  obey 
the  orders  of  the  Captain  of  Salvation.  The  request  was 
acceded  to,  and  I  soon  found  my  mind  impressed  with  an 
exhortation  to  deliver  first  to  the  father,  and  then  to  the 
mother,  to  become  concerned  for  themselves,  and  not  put  off 
the  work  of  repentance  and  amendment  of  life.  Time  is 
uncertain,  the  necessity  very  great  to  have  our  day's  work 
going  on  in  the  day  time,  and  exhorted  them  to  be  concerned 
to  train  up  their  family  in  the  nurture  and  admonition  of 
the  Lord.  I  then  left  them,  feeling  greatly  relieved,  and 
very  thankful  that  I  had  attended  to  this  duty.  They  bade 
me  farewell  respectfully,  and  I  had  cause  to  believe  were  sat- 
isfied with  the  visit.  I  afterwards  learned  that  this  woman, 
on  being  queried  with  by  her  mother  if  she  was  not  going 
to  Monthly  Meeting  the  fourth  day  previous,  replied  no ; 
that  she  did  not  want  to  hear  a  ranter  preach,  alluding  to 
my  prospect  of  being  there,  for  as  such  I  had  been  repre- 
sented to  her.  Then  I  saw  that  my  feelings  had  been  cor- 
rect, and  that  the  Lord  had  laid  it  upon  me  to  preach  in 
their  house,  not  having  heard  ^anything  of  her  remarks. 
Truly  my  soul  has  dwelt  among  lions,  but  the  Lord  hath 
stopped  their  mouths.  I  had  felt  on  entering  that  house 
when  we  first  stopped  in  Salem,  that  if  any  religious  service 
was  required  of  me  there,  it  would  be  like  taking  my  life  to 
give  up  thereto ;  but  the  things  that  my  soul  refused  have 
become  my  sorrowful  meat.  Praise  ye  the  Lord,  ye  who 
have  known  the  bow  of  steel  to  be  broken,  and  the  arms  of 
your  hands  made  strong  by  the  hands  of  the  mighty  God  of 
Jacob.  It  is  through  good  report  and  evil  report,  as  deceivers 
and  yet  true,  that  the  tribulated  servants  of  the  Lord  must 
pass  along;  for  if  they  have  called  the  Master  of  the  house 


248  JOURNAL    OF  [1865. 

Beelzebub,  what  will  they  not  say  of  them  whom  he  hath 
called  and  appointed  to  run  on  his  errands.  After  the  op- 
portunity above  mentioned,  dined  at  Caspar  Wistar's.  Had 
some  religious  service  in  the  family,  arid  felt  easy  and  peace- 
ful. Caspar  and  his  wife  both  expressed  satisfaction  with 
the  visit. 

Took  tea  at  George  Abbott's,  had  a  religious  opportu- 
nity in  the  family  to  the  relief  and  peace  of  my  mind,  and 
to  the  satisfaction  of  the  visited.  It  has  rarely  happened  in 
this  visit  that  my  Master  whom  I  desired  I  think  above  all 
things,  faithfully  to  serve,  suffered  me  to  leave  a  family  with- 
out a  religious  opportunity,  though  my  natural  inclination 
would  gladly  have  been  excused  therefrom.  Lodged  that 
night  at  Martha  Wistar's,  but  had  I  been  faithful  when 
there  before,  we  need  not  have  returned  at  this  time ;  I  en- 
deavored to  clear  my  mind  towards  this  family. 

Seventh  Month  3rd. — Left  Salem  with  a  peaceful  mind, 
and  took  the  boat  for  Philadelphia.  Had  a  pleasant  and 
beautiful  ride  on  the  great  Delaware;  got  to  Nathan  Kite's 
about  noon.  My  mind  had  been  under  exercise  in  regard 
to  attending  the  meetings  belonging  to  Muncy  and  Exeter 
Monthly  Meetings,  branches  of  Philadelphia  Quarterly 
Meeting.  I  found  I  must  stand  resigned  to  go,  although  the 
weather  was  very  warm,  and  everything  as  to  the  outward 
seemed  to  be  against  it.  I  mentioned  the  subject  to  my  com- 
panions, and  to  Nathan  and  Hannah  Kite.  My  companions 
expressed  a  willingness  to  go,  but  Nathan  and  Hannah  did 
not  encourage  or  discourage,  leaving  the  matter  entirely 
with  myself.  I  took  that  opportunity  to  ask  Nathan  Kite 
if  I  had  gone  counter  to  his  advice  since  I  had  been  amongst 
them.  I  said,  didst  thou  not  say,  thou  wast  willing  I  should 
visit  the  Monthly  Meetings  in  the  city  ?  He  said,  Yes. 
When  I  asked,  Didst  thou  not  say  thou  wast  willing  I 


1865.]  ANN     BRANSON.  249 

should  visit  the  Monthly  Meetings  in  the  limits  of  Cain 
Quarter.  "Yes,  perfectly."  Now  I  do  not  want  to  go 
counter  to  the  advice  of  the  elders,  but  as  the  subject  of 
going  to  Muncy  was  left  with  me,  I  must  be  wholly  resigned 
to  go,  so  we  were  about  preparing  to  set  out  next  morning. 
But  after  my  mind  had  become  fully  resigned,  and  I  was 
making  no  other  calculation  but  to  go,  the  scale  began  to 
turn,  and  turn  it  did,  until  the  pointings  of  the  Master's 
finger  were  directly  homewards.  Oh,  the  goodness  of  my 
Heavenly  Father  in  this  release,  but  I  did  not  mention  my 
feelings  to  my  companions  till  next  morning.  Arising  early, 
I  let  them  know  our  way  was  clear  towards  home,  as  soon 
as  arrangements  could  be  made  for  leaving  the  city.  Hav- 
ing several  times  during  our  tarriance  in  the  city  sought  an 
opportunity  to  be  a  little  time  in  Elizabeth  Pitfield's  com- 
pany, she  being  confined  at  home  through  indisposition,  and 
having  failed,  I  now  sent  her  word  we  were  about  to  return 
home,  and  if  she  wished  to  see  us,  we  would  be  willing  to 
spend  a  little  time  in  her  company.  The  time  set  by  her- 
self for  the  visit  was  four  o'clock,  the  4th  of  the  month. 
We  accordingly  went  at  the  time,  found  her  sitting  up 
and  ready  to  receive  us.  I  informed  her  that  I  had  heard 
she  had  expressed  a  wish  to  see  us,  and  now  if  she  had  any- 
thing for  us,  I,  or  we,  were  willing  to  hear  it.  We  sat  awhile 
in  solemn  silence,  in  which  the  Master  gave  .us  an  unspeaka- 
ble evidence,  that  his  presence  was  near,  to  my  humbling 
admiration,  and  then  Elizabeth  was  commissioned  to  break 
that  silence,  and  express  her  feelings,  which  I  found  were 
in  unison  with  my  own,  being  bound  to  acknowledge  that 
the  presence  of  the  Master  was  to  be  felt  and  witnessed, 
giving  life,  peace  and  satisfaction  in  the  opportunity ;  re- 
viving for  my  encouragement  this  language :  "  Fear  not,  for 
I  am  with  thee ;  be  not  dismayed,  for  I  am  thy  God.  I  will 
17 


250  JOURNAL    OF  [1865. 

strengthen  thee ;  yea,  I  will  help  thee ;  yea,  I  will  uphold 
thee  with  the  right  hand  of  my  righteousness."  Before  a 
word  was  spoken,  this  language  ran  through  my  mind,  feel- 
ing that  we  were  permitted  to  realize  it :  "  Man  did  eat 
angels'  food."  We  parted  with  Elizabeth  in  near  affection, 
and  the  language  of  Joseph  ran  through  my  mind,  "Doth 
my  Father  yet  live."  I  found  my  dear  aged  friend  alive  in 
the  Truth,  and  rejoicing  to  find  those  alive  too,  whom  she 
may  have  (by  insinuations  and  deceptions  on  the  part  of 
others)  supposed,  torn  to  pieces  by  a  wild,  ranting  spirit,  as 
some  were  wont  to  represent  me.  Oh  !  the  wonder-working 
power  of  the  Almighty?  Who  can  fathom  it?  Who  can 
stay  the  bottles  of  heaven  ?  "  Who  can  bind  the  sweet  in- 
fluences of  Pleiades,  or  loose  the  bands  of  Orion  ? "  He  hath 
reserved  the  prerogative  in  his  own  hands  to  take  the  wise 
in  their  own  craftiness.  Oh,  Philadelphia!  Philadelphia, 
how  hath  my  spirit  been  made  to  partake  in  the  midst  of 
thee  of  the  cup  of  deep  suffering !  How  have  the  mountains 
of  exercise  pressed  sore  upon  me !  How  have  the  enemies 
of  Truth  ploughed  upon  my  back  and  made  long  their 
furrows — how  did  my  God  give  me  up  to  be  trodden  down 
a?  the  mire  of  the  streets,  when  no  arm  save  that  of  Om- 
nipotence could  have  sustained  me  under  the  weight  of 
exercise  and  distress  meted  out  to  me  since  my  lot  was  cast 
in  thee  —  thou  magnificent  and  populous  city  —  once  the 
habitation  of  many  worthy  champions  for  the  Truth ;  now, 
alas!  the  residence  of  many  under  the.  name  of  Friends,  but 
not  in  the  possession  of  the  Truth  "  as  it  is  in  Jesus."  Yet  I 
believe  there  is  a  seed  and  remnant  preserved.  Returned  to 
Nathan  Kite's  and  staid  till  after  tea.  Before  leaving,  I  told 
Xathan,  I  had  nothing  to  take  back,  or  regret,  that  I  had 
said  in  their  Yearly  Meeting.  I  said,  moreover,  we  have 
had  some  favored  opportunities  together,  and  I  trust,  there 


1865.]  ANN     BRANSON.  251 

is  still  a  feeling  left  in  our  hearts  in  which  we  can  recom- 
mend one  another  to  the  care  and  keeping  of  the  Shepherd, 
and  Bishop  of  souls,  and  bid  each  other  farewell  in  the  love 
of  the  gospel :  to  which  Nathan  fully  and  freely  assented ; 
and  we  then  shook  hands  and  parted,  to  meet  perhaps,  no 
more  on  earth.  At  the  same  time  Nathan  said  to  me : 
Mayest  thou  be  comforted  and  strengthened  when  thou  gets 
home. 

There  the  Lord  let  me  see  his  wonders  in  the  deep  ;  there 
He  kept  my  head  above  the  waters,  when  the  waves  ran 
high  and  boisterous.  He  showed  me  before  I  left  my  own 
habitation,  that  I  must  suffer  those,  and  there  in  that  Gol- 
gotha his  everlasting  arms  were  underneath,  though  nothing 
but  the  grain  of  living  faith  was  vouchsafed,  and  felt  to 
support,  and  my  heart  hath  praised  Him,  that  I  was  ac- 
counted worthy  to  suffer  with  the  oppressed,  down-trodden 
seed :  whilst  the  frost  consumed  by  night  and  the  draught 
by  day.  Praise  ye  the  Lord. 

Returned  to  Joseph  Walton's,  and  spent  the  evening 
pleasantly  with  several  Friends.  Next  morning  took  leave 
of  Joseph  and  his  wife,  their  brothers,  sisters  and  aged 
mother,  and  left  Philadelphia  in  the  eight  o'clock  train  for 
home.  On  my  way  this  language  was  almost  constantly  in 
my  mind :  "  With  my  staff  I  passed  over  this  Jordan,  but 
now  I  am  become  two  bands,"  having  become  united  to  a 
living  remnant,  who  felt  as  flesh  of  my  flesh  and  bone  of 
my  bone;"  both  among  the  aged,  the  middle  aged,  and  the 
dear  youth,  whose  prayers  and  good  desires  followed  us 
homewards  as  the  kindred  of  Joseph.  On  my  way  home, 
where  we  lodged  the  last  night,  a  young  woman  was  playing 
on  the  piano.  I  went  to  her  and  thus  accosted  her:  "  Wilt 
thou  suffer  the  word  of  exhortation  from  a  stranger."  She 
immediately  stopped  playing.  Then  I  laid  before  her  the 


252  JOURNAL     OF  [1866. 

necessity  of  spending  her  time  in  the  fear  of  the  Lord  and 
to  his  honor  and  glory.  The  tears  came  in  her  eyes,  and 
we  parted  friendly.  Oh,  the  cross  it  is  and  has  been  thus 
to  address  others,  but  my  peace  is  concerned  therein  and  I 
durst  not  withhold.  Went  on  my  way  rejoicing,  but  not 
without  trembling  for  my  own  safety.  Our  friends  at  home 
rejoiced  to  see  us,  and  we  them. 


CHAPTER  IX. 

PROTRACTED  ILLNESS  —  PRIVATE  SPIRITUAL  EXERCISES — INTERVIEW  WITH 
DANIEL  KOLL — AND  OPPORTUNITIES  WITH  OTHER  INDIVIDUALS— A  RE- 
LIGIOUS VISIT  TO  INDIANA — IOWA — AND  THE  WESTERN  PARTS  OF  OHIO  ; 
AND  THE  PECULIAR  EXERCISES  AND  TRIALS  CONNECTED  THEREWITH — 
DEATH  OF  HER  BROTHER,  JACOB  BRANSON,  AND  HER  ACCOMPANYING 
FEELINGS. 

After  my  return  from  this  visit,  I  was  able  to  get  out  to 
meeting  quite  regularly  until  about  the  middle  of  the  Second 
Month,  1866,  when  my  health  again  gave  way,  and  I  was 
pretty  closely  confined  to  my  bed  for  about  eight  months, 
being  unable  during  that  time,  and  even  some  longer,  to 
walk  a  step  without  suffering  in  consequence,  and  often  had 
turns  of  great  prostration  of  bodily  strength,  which  seemed 
to  threaten  at  times,  immediate  dissolution.  But  He  Avho 
holdeth  our  lives  in  his  hand,  saw  fit  to  order  it  otherwise, 
and  He  again  raised  me  up,  to  enjoy  tolerable  health  and 
strength  :  when  I  first  began  to  attend  our  religious  meet- 
ings, after  this  indisposition,  I  had  for  some  weeks  to  be 
carried  in  and  out  of  the  meeting-house,  being  unable  to 
walk. 

Third  Mouth  3rd,  1866.— I  feel  like  recording  my  feel- 
ings on  the  evening  of  the  28th  ult.  After  spending  the 
afternoon  of  that  day  in  earnest  desires  that  I  might  be 


1866.]  ANN     BRANSON.  253 

searched,  tried  and  proven,  that  if  anything  remained  in  my 
heart  contrary  to  the  will  of  God,  that  I  might  be  enabled 
to  bear  the  cleansing,  purifying  operations  necessary  to  re- 
move it,  whatever  it  might  be  :  that  nothing  might  stand  in 
my  way  of  acceptance  with  the  Beloved  of  Souls.  After  the 
Lord  had  begotten  this  exercise  in  my  heart,  He  did  con- 
descend, in  a  marvellous  manner,  to  break  through  all 
weakness,  and  the  feeling  of  unworthiness  which  for  some 
time  had  been  the  clothing  of  my  spirit,  so  that  I  had  felt 
afraid  to  take  his  name  in  my  mouth,  and  He  did  pour 
into  my  soul  the  song  of  thanksgiving,  praise  and  high  re- 
nown to  his  own  worthy  name.  He  did  clothe  my  spirit 
with  praise,  as  with  a  garment.  He  sent  his  angel  and 
rolled  away  the  stone  from  the  door  of  the  sepulchre.  He 
removed  every  restraint,  and  gave  me  to  see  and  feel  that 
He  is  the  same  to-day,  yesterday  and  forever — that  nothing 
is  too  hard  for  Him  to  do — that  He  hath  all  power  in  the 
visible  and  spiritual  creation.  And  when  I  had  remained 
under  this  feeling  for  some  time  He  gradually  withdrew  the 
overflowing  fulness  from  my  heart  and  left  me  in  the  en- 
joyment of  peaceful  acquiescence  to  his  holy  will,  trusting 
that  as  He  careth  for  the  sparrows,  so  He  would  care  for  me. 
I  said,  I  will  praise  thee,  O  God,  with  my  whole  heart — 
I  will  utter  the  song  of  thanksgiving,  glory,  honor  and  high 
renown  unto  my  God :  Praise  Him,  O  my  soul,  in  heights, 
and  praise  Him  in  depths — when  He  hideth  his  face  from 
thee,  praise  Him  by  keeping  hold  of  that  little  grain  of 
living  faith  mercifully  vouchsafed,  which  will  keep  thee 
from  despair,  in  the  most  dark  and  gloomy  hour:  and  when 
He  ariseth  for  thy  deliverance,  and  showeth  thee  the  light 
of  his  countenance,  keep  thy  heart  with  all  diligence,  lest 
after  having  sung  his  praise  as  on  the  banks  of  deliverance, 
like  Israel  of  old;  thou  forget  his  works  and  cause  his  hand 


254  JOURNAL     OF  [1866. 

to  be  turned  against  thee.  My  spirit  had  at  times  for  months 
previous  to  this,  been  in  the  deeps,  in  travail,  exercise  and 
sympathy  for  and  with  some,  who  had  widely  strayed  from 
the  path  of  peace,  whose  dwelling  seemed  to  be  where  there 
was  no  ray  of  light.  I  felt,  as  it  were,  the  weight  of  moun- 
tains pressing  upon  me,  and  as  the  floods  of  deep  discourage- 
ment and  despair,  presented  and  awfully  threatened  to  over- 
whelm, my  prayer  day  and  night  was,  Lord,  be  graciously 
pleased  to  have  mercy,  and  in  thy  great  and  wonderful 
mercy  be  pleased  to  prevent  the  awful  calamity  of  hopeless 
despair  from  overwhelming  those  who  feel  that  they  have 
greviously  revolted  from  thy  law  and  commandments ;  and 
bring  them  to  see  and  feel,  that  though  their  sins  be  as 
scarlet,  thou  canst  make  them  white  as  snow,  and  though 
red  like  crimson,  thou  canst  make  them  as  wool,  though 
their  sins  be  many  and  grievous,  thou,  in  thy  compassionate 
mercy  art  ready  to  forgive  and  blot  out  as  there  is  a  bowing 
before  thee.  Oh,  that  I  could  write  my  feelings  in  a  book, 
that  I  could  persuade  the  sons  and  daughters  of  men,  to 
whom  the  arms  of  everlasting  mercy  are  stretched  out  for 
their  help  and  recovery,  to  lay  hold  of  the  hope  set  before 
them.  Oh,  that  I  could  persuade  those  who  are  still  in  the 
bonds  of  iniquity  and  resting  under  a  false  hope,  to  turn 
unto  the  Lord,  who  will  have  mercy,  and  to  our  God,  who 
will  abundantly  pardon. 

The  foregoing  has  been  written  on  a  sick  bed,  to  which  I 
have  been  mostly  confined  for  some  weeks  past. 

Eighth  Month  23rd. — Received  a  visit  to-day  from  Daniel 
Koll  and  David  Conrow.  Daniel  has  been  one  of  the  leaders 
in  the  late  separation  in  our  Yearly  Meeting,  and  David  has 
followed  their  footsteps.  All  the  family  having  gone  to 
Monthly  Meeting  except  the  colored  woman,  I  had  no  idea 
who  was  about  to  enter  my  room  until  they  came  in.  When 


1866.]  ANN     BRANSON.  255 

I  shook  hands  with  them,  Daniel  remarked  that  hearing  I 
was  confined  to  my  room  by  indisposition,  and  being  in  the 
neighborhood,  he  felt  like  coming  to  see  me ;  to  which  I  made 
no  reply,  but  asked  them  to  sit  down.  The  prayer  of  my 
heart  then  was :  "  Lord,  preserve  me  from  uttering  a  word 
uncalled  for  by  thee ; "  and  the  desire  was  that  if  consistent 
with  his  will,  I  might  be  permitted  to  spend  the  time  in 
silence. 

After  a  few  brief  inquiries  and  answers  respecting  my 
health,  we  dropped  into  silence,  which  remained  undisturbed 
for  a  considerable  time,  during  which  I  felt  this  precious  in- 
vitation awaiting  the  acceptance  of  those  to  whom  it  was 
applicable,  and  very  sweet  and  precious  did  the  mercy  of 
God  feel  to  my  soul :  "  Return,  ye  backsliding  children,  and 
I  will  heal  your  backslidings."  But  still  I  felt  in  hopes  I 
might  be  permitted  to  pass  the  time  in  silence.  After  this 
the  language  of  the  prophet  came  before  me :  "  Take  away 
from  me  the  noise  of  thy  songs ;  for  I  will  not  hear  the 
melody  of  thy  viols ; "  and  I  felt  that  I  should  not  be  clear 
without  reviving  it,  and  so  I  did.  I  told  Daniel  that  he  had 
been  visited  of  the  Lord,  his  understanding  had  been  opened 
to  see  the  beauty  of  holiness,  but  for  the  want  of  keeping 
his  eye  single  to  the  Lord  and  following  the  true  light,  he 
had  become  as  a  vessel  marred  on  the  wheel,  so  that  this 
language  appeared  applicable  unto  his  situation :  "  Take 
away  from  me  the  noise  of  thy  songs ;  for  I  will  not  hear 
the  melody  of  thy  viols.  But  let  judgment  run  down  as 
waters,  and  righteousness  as  a  mighty  stream,"  in  the  temple 
of  thy  heart :  and  again,  "  O  that  thou  hadst  hearkened  to 
my  commandments!  then  had  thy  peace  been  as  a  river, 
and  thy  righteousness  as  the  waves  of  the  sea."  I  told  them 
that  the  foundation  they  were  resting  on  could  not  stand  ; 
that  nothing  pleased  the  enemy  better  than  to  get  people 


256  JOURNAL    OF  [1866. 

into  a  false  rest  and  false  peace.  They  knew  I  had  never 
given  countenance  or  encouragement  to  the  steps  they  had 
taken,  that  is,  withdrawing  from  their  respective  meetings 
and  setting  up  separate  ones ;  and  because  I  had  dealt 
plainly  and  honestly  with  those  who  had  thus  departed 
from  the  right  way,  I  had  been  accounted  their  enemy. 
But  of  one  thing  we  are  all  aware,  that  we  must  inde- 
pendently of  any  arm  of  flesh  to  lean  upon,  separately  and 
singly  stand  before  the  judgment  seat  of  Christ,  and  receive 
a  reward  according  to  the  deeds  done  in  the  body  ;  and  the 
ardent  prayer  of  my  heart  for  them,  as  well  as  for  myself, 
is,  that  we  might  be  able  in  sincerity  of  heart  to  adopt  this 
language :  "  Search  me,  O  God,  and  know  my  heart,  try  me 
and  know  my  thoughts,  and  if  there  be  any  wicked  way  in 
me,  do  thou  it  away." 

I  told  Daniel  he  well  knew  that  I  had  dealt  plainly  and 
honestly  with  him  some  years  ago  when  at  his  house,  letting 
him  know  that  I  had  no  unity  with  the  course  he  was  pur- 
suing He  said  he  knew  it,  but  his  desire  was  to  do  right. 
I  told  him  I  fully  believed  he  was  in  an  error  and  deceived, 
and  thou  too  [David]  who  had  joined  with  him  in  this  separ- 
ation. That  he  was  amongst  the  first  at  Salem  who  took 
this  step,  and  a  great  weight  and  responsibility  rested  upon 
him.  I  said,  do  not  be  going  about  strengthening  the  wrong 
and  weakening  the  right.  I  said  to  David,  oh,  that  thou 
wast  still  a  member  of  our  meeting  deepened  in  the  root  of 
life,  so  that  thou  couldst  dig  with  the  staff  of  faith  for  the 
arising  of  the  well-spring  of  life  in  thyself  and  others.  He 
replied,  that  his  desire  had  been  to  do  right.  I  answered, 
but  thou  art,  I  believe,  deceived.  They  both  gave  me  to 
understand  that  they  did  not  look  upon  me  as  their  enemy. 
I  said,  I  must  be  clear.  I  pray  God  that  ye  may  do  that 
which  is  right,  though  we  be  accounted  as  reprobates.  But 


1868.]  ANN    BRANSON.  257 

I  trust  ye  shall  come  to  know  that  we  are  not  reprobates. 
Daniel  said,  he  had  no  counsel  for  me ;  he  left  the  Yearly 
Meeting  because  it  had  left  the  right  foundation.  I  told  him 
I  believed  in  the  view  of  Lydia  Ann  Barclay,  viz  :  That 
separation  brought  about  in  the  will  and  wisdom  of  the 
creature  was  like  one  worldly  spirit  separating  from  another, 
and  great  reproach  will  be  entailed  on  the  blessed  cause. 

Twelfth  Month  23rd,  1867. — Yesterday  I  entered  my  six- 
tieth year ;  how  solemn  the  consideration  that  I  have  lived 
so  long  on  this  earth  and  done  so  little  to  promote  the  Re- 
deemer's kingdom  amongst  mankind,  yet  the  prayer  of  my 
heart  has  been  ever  since  I  was  young  in  years,  that  the 
Lord  would  so  deal  with  me,  as  to  fit  me  for  my  latter  end, 
no  matter  what  strokes  it  might  take.  And  I  can  say  in 
looking  over  my  past  life,  the  Lord  hath  dealt  marvellously 
and  very  graciously  with  me:  Blessed,  praised  and  magni- 
fied be  his  holy  and  adorable  name  forever ;  and  let  all  the 
world  say  amen.  For  He  hath  preserved  my  life  both  nat- 
urally and  spiritually,  through  many  sore  conflicts  of  flesh 
and  spirit.  When  I  said  my  flesh  and  my  heart  faileth,  thy 
mercy,  O  God,  held  me  up. 

30th. — My  spirit  has  long  been  and  still  continues  to  be 
greatly  exercised  on  behalf  of  my  nephew  L.  B.,  whose  wel- 
fare I  have  earnestly  sought,  not  only  by  giving  counsel, 
admonition  and  encouragement  to  pursue  the  right  path, 
the  path  that  leads  to  peace,  but  the  fervent  petitions  of  my 
heart  have  often  been  raised  to  the  Father  of  mercies  on  his 
behalf.  Oh,  that  his  heart  might  be  turned  to  seek  after 
durable  riches  and  righteousness,  before  the  day  of  his  mer- 
ciful visitation  passes  over. 

First  Month  14th,  1868. — I  have  just  been  conversing 
with  an  individual,  who  some  years  ago  was  a  serious,  sober- 
minded  young  man,  apparently  much  concerned  for  the 


258  JOURNAL    OF  [1868. 

welfare  of  his  own  soul,  and  that  of  others ;  but  who  by 
giving  way  to  a  wrong  spirit,  stumbling  at  the  faults  of 
others,  and  forsaking  the  Truth,  has  become  a  poor,  wander- 
ing outcast,  and  literally  a  vagabond  upon  the  earth.  The 
show  of  his  countenance  doth  witness  against  him,  having 
the  look  of  a  hardened  sinner ;  and  yet  mercy,  unspeakable 
mercy,  seems  still  to  follow  him,  and  he  appears  to  be  aware 
in  some  measure  of  his  wretched  and  forlorn  condition.  Oh, 
thou  who  gathereth  souls  as  from  the  pit  of  corruption,  have 
mercy  upon  this  man  as  thou  had  upon  the  one  that  met 
thee  out  of  the  tombs,  exceeding  fierce,  who  was  afterwards 
found  sitting  clothed,  and  in  his  right  mind. 

Third  Month  18th. — Attended  the  close  of  the  winter  ses- 
sion of  our  Boarding  School.  Went  under  considerable  dis- 
couragement and  some  difficulty,  the  roads  being  very  bad 
and  tedious  to  travel  over,  but  I  was  favored  to  return  home 
with  an  easy  mind,  which  more  than  compensated  for  all 
difficulty. 

On  my  way  home,  attended  Harrisville  Meeting,  and  there, 
as  well  as  at  school,  had  something  to  communicate  in  the 
way  of  the  ministry,  which  was  relieving  to  my  feelings. 
On  our  way  from  this  meeting  to  the  Friend's  house  where 
we  dined,  I  noticed  an  aged  man  in  a  field  by  the  roadside. 
When  I  saw  him  my  heart  was  moved  to  address  a  few 
words  to  him  in  the  love  of  the  gospel.  I  halted  a  little  and 
then  proceeded  onward,  but  finding  I  should  have  a  burden 
resting  upon  me  if  I  did  not  yield,  I  requested  the  Friend 
with  me  to  invite  the  stranger  to  the  carriage.  He  came 
without  hesitation,  and  received  what  I  had  to  say  with  re- 
spectful attention,  saying  he  was  thankful  for  the  oppor- 
tunity. 

After  dinner,  went  to  the  house  of  a  Friend,  and  found 
him  and  his  wife  at  home,  his  wife's  father  being  there  also. 


1868.]  ANN     BRANSON.  259 

I  laid  before  them  the  concern  that  rested  with  me  on  ac- 
count of  the  want  of  true  love,  Christian  patience  and  for- 
bearance apparent  in  the  heads  of  that  family,  relieving  my 
mind  in  a  very  plain  way  to  the  father  in  particular,  and 
also  to  the  others.  I  felt  thankful  for  the  opportunity  af- 
forded for  clearing  myself  on  this  occasion,  and  when  I  had 
done  so,  proceeded  towards  home. 

As  we  entered  the  town  of  Harrisville,  I  noticed  two  men 
near  the  roadside  conversing  together.  As  soon  as  I  saw 
the  countenance  of  one  of  these  men,  this  language  ran  for- 
cibly through  my  mind — "  Repent  before  it  be  too  late." 
After  passing  them,  I  found  I  should  carry  a  burden  with 
me,  if  I  did  not  stop  and  leave  a  message  and  warning  with 
them.  I  therefore  requested  the  Friend  who  was  driving 
the  carriage,  to  halt.  After  waiting  a  few  minutes  in  silence, 
I  requested  that  those  two  men  might  be  invited  to  the  car- 
riage. They  came  and  heard  respectfully  what  I  had  to 
say.  After  which  I  felt  relieved  and  humbled,  going  on  my 
way  with  a  thankful  heart. 

On  the  26th  of  Fifth  Mouth,  1868, 1  left  home,  accompa- 
nied by  my  cousins  Asa  Branson  and  Abigail  Sears,  to  per- 
form a  religious  visit  amongst  those  professing  with  Friends 
and  others,  in  some  parts  of  a  few  States  west  of  our  own, 
and  also  in  some  parts  of  Ohio. 

Attended  Stillwater  Quarterly  Meeting  on  the  27th,  and 
on  the  28th  we  took  the  cars  at  Barnesville  for  Indiana,  and 
about  six  o'clock  that  evening  arrived  at  my  brother  Isaiah's, 
four  miles  north  of  Richmond,  in  Wayne  County.  I  was 
very  much  fatigued  with  the  day's  ride,  but  a  night's  rest 
recruited  me  finely. 

On  the  29th,  we  went  to  Earlham  College  (a  high  school 
under  the  care  of  Indiana  Yearly  Meeting),  in  pursuance 
of  that  which  I  believed  my  religious  duty.  I  informed  the 


260  JOURNAL     OF  [1868. 

Principal,  Barnabas  C.  Hobbs,  that  our  business  there  was 
to  request  a  Meeting  for  Worship  with  the  students  and  in- 
mates of  that  institution.  We  gave  him  our  certificates, 
which  he  read  aloud  to  his  wife.  They  both  expressed  a 
willingness  that  we  should  have  a  meeting,  but  said  it  was 
the  time  of  review,  examination  was  coming  on  and  it  would 
be  difficult  to  spare  the  time,  &c.  Barnabas  said  he  would 
consult  other  officers  on  the  subject  as  he  had  no  right  to 
grant  the  request  without  the  consent  of  others.  After  con- 
sulting with  those  he  selected,  he  informed  us  that  they  had 
concluded  they  could  spare  about  one  hour  for  the  meeting. 
I  asked  him  if  it  was  to  be  understood,  that  the  time  was 
limited  to  an  hour.  He  replied  that  that  was  what  he  was 
instructed  to  say — one  hour,  or  at  the  furthest,  an  hour  and 
a  quarter.  I  told  him  I  could  not  appoint  a  meeting  on 
such  terms.  It  was  not  for  us  to  say,  just  how  long  a  Meet- 
ing for  Worship  should  hold.  It  was  the  prerogative  of  the 
Head  of  the  Church  to  open  the  way  for  a  religious  meeting 
to  close ;  such  a  limitation  act  was  not  in  accordance  with 
the  principles  of  Friends.  His  wife  owned  that  it  was  not 
right  ground  to  take,  regretted  we  could  not  be  there  on 
meeting-day,  &c. 

Barnabas  said,  we  have  a  system  for  the  management  of 
our  school — clock-work  for  all  the  recitations — and  there 
were  many  students  that  were  not  members,  their  interest 
and  feelings  had  to  be  taken  into  the  account.  But  the 
main  thing  in  all  their  excuses  was,  I  have  no  doubt,  that 
they  had  not  unity  with  us  in  our  religious  engagement.  I 
told  Barnabas  that  the  Lord  in  his  own  way  and  time  would 
sweep  away  from  our  midst  this  compromising  spirit  which 
was  laying  waste  the  Society,  and  preserve  a  remnant,  and 
add  to  that  remnant  those  who  would  stand  for  the  princi- 
ples and  testimonies  of  the  Society,  as  promulgated  and  up- 


1868.]  ANN     BRANSON.  261 

held  by  Friends  in  the  beginning.  I  said  considerable  to 
him  in  the  presence  of  some  of  the  male  teachers,  who  I  was 
willing  should  hear.  I  told  him,  that  the  time  would  come 
when  all  worldly  honor  and  popularity  would  burst  as  a 
bubble  upon  the  mighty  ocean,  not  affording  a  ray  of  com- 
fort or  consolation.  This  was  only  a  small  part  of  what  I 
had  to  say.  I  had  been  acquainted  with  Barnabas  whilst 
he  was  teacher  in  Ohio  Boarding  School,  and  did  not  then 
consider  him  a  Friend  in  principle,  and  he  appeared  not  to 
have  gained  anything  in  that  way  since  he  left  our  school, 
though  he  is  an  acknowledged  minister  in  Indiana.  After 
a  pretty  full  expression  relative  to  their  innovations  touch- 
ing Society  matters,  we  left  them  with  feelings  of  sadness. 

Went  to  Richmond,  to  ask  for  an  appointed  meeting 
amongst  those  professing  the  name  of  Friends  in  that  city. 
We  laid  the  subject  before  an  elder,  who  agreed  to  call  a 
consultation  of  ministers  and  elders,  and  let  us  know  the 
result  of  the  conference.  We  received  information  next  day, 
that  they  thought  it  would  be  a  violation  of  their  Discipline 
to  appoint  a  meeting  for  us,  but  they  were  very  free  that 
we  should  attend  their  meeting  on  First-day,  and  if  we  had 
anything  for  them  in  the  way  of  the  ministry,  they  desired 
we  might  feel  all  freedom,  as  they  granted  this  privilege  to 
ministers  of  other  religious  denominations.  But  we  declined 
to  accept  their  invitation. 

We  next  applied  for  a  meeting  at  Chester,  but  the  same 
results  followed.  They  wished  us  to  attend  their  meetings, 
but  we  told  them  we  felt  no  more  freedom  to  go  into  their 
meetings,  than  the  meetings  of  other  denominations.  We 
staid  at  my  brother's  one  week ;  during  which  I  was  under 
great  exercise  of  mind,  as  much  so  as  I  ever  remember  to 
have  been.  I  felt  that  I  could  do  anything  for  the  sake  of 
that  peace  which  the  world  cannot  give.  Although  thus 


262  JOURNAL    OF  [1868. 

exercised,  I  did  not  feel  any  condemnation  in  relation  to 
setting  out  on  this  visit,  neither  as  regards  my  movements 
since  leaving  home,  but  my  sorrows  were  stirred  within  me 
on  seeing  and  feeling  the  sad  and  benumbed  condition  of 
those  professing  the  high  and  holy  profession  of  Friends. 
But  when  my  heavenly  Father  had  let  me  feel  this  depth  of 
sorrow,  and  the  low  and  suffering  state  of  the  true  seed,  He 
opened  our  way  to  move  forward,  and  we  left  Wayne  County 
on  the  4th  of  the  Sixth  Month,  and  proceeded  toSpiceland, 
in  Henry  County,  a  distance  of  about  fifty  miles. 

We  stopped  with  Jason  Williams,  who  married  my  cousin 
Abigail  Holloway.  I  asked  Abigail  (her  husband  having 
gone  to  Richmond  to  attend  a  Meeting  for  Sufferings)  if  she 
thought  the  elders  and  heads  of  their  meeting  would  be  wil- 
ling to  appoint  a  meeting  for  us  next  day,  at  some  suitable 
hour.  She  thought  they  would,  and  said  she  would  go  and 
see  some  of  them,  which  she  did.  Presently  two  elders  came 
in  to  see  us,  and  asked  what  our  wishes  were.  I  told  them 
they  were  perhaps  aware  that  we  were  from  that  Body  in 
Ohio  which  Indiana  had  designated  as  Separatists ;  never- 
theless, we  believed  we  were  from  the  legitimate  Yearly 
Meeting  of  Friends  in  Ohio  ;  and  had  come  among  them  in 
gospel  love,  desiring  a  meeting  the  next  day  if  there  was  a 
freedom  amongst  them  to  appoint  one.  They  asked  whether 
we  would  appoint  meetings  for  one  of  their  ministers?  Cousin 
Asa  replied,  that  he  expected  we  would  not.  They  thought 
the  rule  ought  to  work  both  ways  ;  we  were  not  willing,  they 
said,  to  do  as  we  would  be  done  by.  Asa  replied,  the  rule 
ought  to  work  both  ways,  provided  things  were  equal.  They 
then  asked  if  we  considered  them  unsound.  Asa  replied, 
that  we  had  not  charged  them  with  unsoundness,  but  the 
Yearly  Meeting  had  given  support  to  unsoundness.  These 
elders  said  we  might  attend  their  meetings,  and  feel  a  free- 


1868.]  ANN    BRANSON.  263 

dom  in  them,  as  they  admitted  ministers  from  the  Metho- 
dists, Presbyterians,  &c.,  into  their  meetings;  and  asked 
what  we  would  do  if  such  ministers  were  to  come  to  our 
meetings  and  preach  amongst  us.  Asa  replied,  they  would 
be  civilly  requested  not  to  disturb  the  meeting.  One  of 
these  elders  said  George  Fox  would  not  have  made  such  a 
request — that  is,  to  silence  such  in  our  meetings.  Asa  said, 
I  think  he  would.  Then  those  men  left  us,  and  collecting 
several  more  of  the  heads  of  the  meeting,  held  a  consultation, 
and  concluded  to  allow  an  appointed  meeting  next  day,  at 
three  o'clock. 

The  meeting  was  held,  but  was  quite  small,  and  I  appre- 
hend but  little  notice  was  given  ;  besides,  such  was  and  is 
the  prejudice  against  our  Yearly  Meeting  that  many  are 
afraid  to  be  seen  or  known  as  showing  us  any  countenance. 
A  woman  belonging  to  that  meeting  appeared  in  supplica- 
tion, and  I  and  my  companions  kept  our  seats  .the  while. 
I  had  some  encouragement  to  offer  to  those  present,  the  lan- 
guage of  whose  hearts  was  on  this  wise :  "  Oh,  that  the  sal- 
vation of  Israel  were  come  out  of  Zion !  when  the  Lord 
bringeth  back  the  captivity  of  his  people,  Jacob  shall  re- 
joice, and  Israel  shall  be  glad."  I  referred  to  the  faith  and 
faithfulness  of  Noah  and  Job,  how  they  were  preserved 
amidst  surrounding  influences  of  the  most  trying  nature  by 
keeping  hold  of  that  which  showed  them  the  right  way,  not 
turning  to  the  right  hand  or  left.  This  exhortation  flowed 
freely  towards  those  who  were  sorely  tried  and  knew  not  what 
to  do.  Another  state  was  spoken  to.  I  said,  those  who  were 
trampling  upon  those  principles  and  testimonies  for  the 
maintenance  of  which  our  early  Friends  suffered  so  much 
would  fare  no  better  than  Belshazzar  if  they  repented  not ; 
who  having  made  a  great  feast  and  whilst  drinking  wine 
out  of  the  golden  vessels  which  had  been  taken  out  of  the 


264  JOURNAL     OF  [1868. 

house  of  the  Lord,  and  carried  to  Babylon,  was  suddenly 
brought  to  confusion  and  trembling  by  seeing  the  fingers  of 
a  man's  handwriting  upon  the  wall  of  his  palace,  and  neither 
he  nor  any  of  his  wise  men  could  read  or  interpret  the 
writing;  yet  one  was  found  in  his  dominions  who  was  made 
to  understand  it.  Yet  it  was  not  until  the  prophet  Daniel 
had  clearly  set  the  sins  of  this  wicked  prince  before  him, 
that  he  proceeded  to  read  and  interpret  the  writing.  "  God 
hath  numbered  thy  kingdom  and  finished  it.  Thou  art 
weighed  in  the  balances,  and  art  found  wanting."  Thus  I 
had  to  warn  some  present  of  the  evil  of  their  ways,  and 
counsel  them  to  turn  unto  the  Lord  before  it  be  too  late. 
Lodged  that  night  at  our  cousin,  David  Holloway's.  There 
we  had  very  plain  talk  with  some  who  came  in  to  spend  the 
evening  with  us,  concerning  the  inconsistent  practices  which 
had  gotten  in  amongst  those  professing  to  be  Friends  in 
those  parts  and  elsewhere.  Alas,  alas!  will  not  the  Lord 
break  the  fetters  in  some  way  with  which  this  people  are 
bound. 

Sixth  of  the  month. — David  Holloway  took  us  to  Duck 
Creek,  six  miles  from  Spiceland,  where  a  meeting  had  been 
appointed  to  be  held  at  three  o'clock  that  afternoon.  It 
was  small,  yet  way  opened  to  relieve  my  mind  amongst  them 
in  a  plain  close  testimony,  and  also  in  supplication.  Cousin 
Asa  had  a  short  communication  with  these,  and  also  at 
Spiceland. 

Dined  at  John  Spencer's.  Before  leaving  his  house,  I 
had  a  few  words  to  speak  to  him  in  the  way  of  warning 
and  counsel,  to  use  all  diligence  to  make  his  calling  and 
election  sure,  whilst  time  and  opportunity  were  afforded. 
Jabez  Henley,  a  minister  belonging  to  Duck  Creek  Meet- 
ing, took  us  that  afternoon  to  Cadiz,  a  distance  of  five  or 
six  miles.  There  was  considerable  conversation  on  the  way 


1868.]  ANN    BRANSON.  265 

concerning  Society  matters.  We  thought  Jabez  was  a  pretty 
thorough  Gurneyite. 

Next  day  being  First-day,  we  were  strongly  solicited  to 
attend  their  meeting  at  Cadiz ;  saying  we  might  feel  all 
freedom  to  do  so,  and  exercise  ourselves  in  the  ministry  if 
anything  was  required.  This  solicitation  we  declined  there, 
as  well  as  elsewhere,  and  requested  a  meeting  amongst  them 
at  three  o'clock  p.  M.  It  was  appointed,  and  well  attended, 
and  proved  an  open  and  satisfactory  meeting.  One  of  the 
principal  elders  expressed  his  full  unity  with  us,  desired  our 
encouragement,  hoped  the  Master  would  be  with  us. 

Went  the  same  evening  to  see  causin  R.  Holloway,  son 
of  Uncle  Robert  Holloway.  After  a  religious  opportunity 
with  Robert  and  wife,  his  brother-in-law  and  wife,  we  left 
them  under  much  exercise  of  mind.  How  sorrowful  it  is 
when  children,  who  have  had  the  care  and  counsel  of  godly 
parents,  turn  a  deaf  ear  to  the  voice  of  instruction  and  choose 
the  path  that  leads  down  to  the  chambers  of  death.  May 
the  son  yet  see  and  feel  the  path  he  is  pursuing  to  be  as  it 
really  is,  the  way  to  destruction,  and  become  as  a  brand 
plucked  from  the  burning,  is  and  has  been  the  prayer  of  my 
heart  for  him.  I  might  have  left  that  house  with  a  clear 
conscience  had  I  relieved  my  mind  fully  towards  an  invalid 
woman  present ;  but  my  omission  herein  paved  the  way  for 
further  delinquency.  As  we  proceeded  towards  the  Friend's 
house  where  we  lodged,  it  came  forcibly  before  me  to  halt 
at  a  house  we  were  about  to  pass,  but  feeling  very  weary,  I 
suffered  myself  to  pass  it  before  inquiring  who  lived  there. 
I  then  found  it  was  the  elder  who  had  spoken  to  us  at  the 
meeting  house,  and  he  and  his  wife  had  kindly  invited  us 
to  call  with  them.  I  now  saw  I  ought  to  have  halted  and 
made  them  a  call,  feeling  something  in  the  way  of  encour- 
agement and  counsel  for  them.  But  I  proposed  to  return 
18 


266  JOURNAL    OF  [1868. 

next  morning  and  do  my  evening  work,  and  so  with  respect 
to  another  house  I  passed  the  same  evening ;  but  the  Lord's 
time  is  not  our  time.  In  the  morning  no  way  opened  for 
me  to  return  to  those  houses,  and  I  had  to  carry  my  bur- 
den with  me.  That  evening  came  a  young  man  and  his 
wife  to  our  lodgings.  After  a  chaptei;  had  been  read  this 
young  man  went  down  on  his  knees  and  had  quite  a  lengthy 
communication  in  the  form  of  a  prayer.  During  his  exer- 
cise, I  felt  my  mind  solemnly  impressed  with  this  Scripture 
passage :  "  Let  every  one  that  nameth  the  name  of  Christ 
depart  from  iniquity."  I  had  to  speak  very  plainly  rela- 
tive to  the  ministry,  how  the  apostles  were  called  thereto, 
that  it  was  of  necessity  they  spoke,  and  their  speech  and 
preaching  was  not  of  the  enticing  words  of  man's  wisdom, 
but  in  demonstration  of  the  spirit  and  of  power. 

That  such  should  be  and  must  be  the  call  and  qualifica- 
tion of  gospel  ministers  in  the  present  day.  No  man  taketh 
this  honor  unto  himself  but  he  that  is  called  of  God  as  was 
Aaron.  The  poor  young  people  are  exampled  and  encour- 
aged to  set  about  preaching  by  the  older  ones,  and  by  the 
example  one  of  another,  many  of  them  having  no  call  to 
the  work  from  the  right  source. 

Next  morning  we  had  much  conversation  with  this  young 
man  in  the  presence  of  his  wife  and  brother-in-law's  family, 
in  regard  to  the  principles  of  Friends,  showing  him  wherein 
many  professing  to  be  Friends  were  leaving  the  true  ground. 
He  seemed  to  think  we  should  always  be  ready  to  explain 
and  expound  the  Holy  Scriptures.  I  told  him  there  was 
but  one  key  to  the  Scriptures,  and  that  was  the  spirit  by 
which  holy  men  of  old  wrote  them,  and  those  who  went  about 
explaining  them  in  their  own  will  and  according  to  the  wis- 
dom of  man,  would  only  wrest  and  pervert  their  true  mean- 
ing. On  taking  leave  of  this  young  man,  he  expressed  his 


1868.]  ANN     BRANSON.  267 

satisfaction  in  being  with  us  and  hearing  what  we  had  to 
say ;  hoped  he  would  improve  by  it.  Left  John  Buf kin's 
that  afternoon  and  went  back  to  Spiceland. 

Sixth  Month  9th. — We  obtained  leave  to  visit  the  large 
school  at  Spiceland,  Clarkson  Davis,  Superintendent.  We 
had  a  religious  opportunity  with  the  scholars  and  teachers 
to  pretty  good  satisfaction,  but  I  felt  all  were  not  present 
whom  I  desired  to  see ;  and  found  afterwards  that  some  of 
the  older  scholars  were  in  another  apartment.  Returned  to 
J.  W's  and  had  a  religious  opportunity  with  him  and  his 
family.  I  had  to  use  great  plainness  of  speech,  which  was 
hard  for  me  and  hard  for  some  of  the  family  to  bear ;  but 
before  we  left,  his  wife  said  to  me  and  my  companion,  "  I 
expect  there  is  cause  for  thy  remarks  and  exercise ;  I  ex- 
pect we  have  not  been  as  faithful  as  we  ought  to  have  been." 
Surrounded  as  they  were  and  had  been  with  wrong  doings, 
and  those  who  were  going  too  fast,  leaving  the  principles 
and  testimonies,  she  thought  it  was  likely  they  had  not 
stood  their  ground  as  faithfully  as  they  ought.  She  further 
said,  "  When  our  son  lay  on  his  death-bed,  he  had  several 
Friends  called  in — heads  of  our  meeting — and  gave  them 
much  counsel  and  advice,  warning  them  against  the  fast 
doings  and  wrong  doings  which  are  amongst  us."  This  she 
told  us  (or  words  to  this  import  as  near  as  I  can  remember) 
in  an  honest  and  respectful  manner.  And  I  could  but  be- 
lieve that  if  her  husband  would  but  let  the  witness  for 
Truth  speak  out  plainly  in  the  temple  of  his  heart,  that  he 
could  not  say  he  saw  no  cause  for  my  close  dealings  with 
him.  The  same  day  we  hired  a  conveyance  to  take  us  to 
Walter  Edgerton's,  brother  of  Joseph  Edgerton.  He  had 
an  invalid  daughter,  with  whom  I  became  quite  interested, 
believing  she  was  a  pious  young  woman,  but  appeared  to  be 
fast  declining.  Whilst  there  I  felt  a  concern  to  see  his  son 


268  JOURNAL     OF  [1868. 

and  family,  who  lived  near  by,  but  found  he  was  working 
some  distance  from  home ;  and  it  being  a  busy  time  with 
the  farmers,  I  had  well  nigh  reasoned  away  my  concern  and 
made  work  for  repentance,  but  having  felt  the  burden  of 
putting  by  duties  to  be  great,  I  requested  the  man  invited 
to  give  us  his  company,  which  he  did,  and  had  a  religious 
opportunity  with  him  and  his  wife,  somewhat  to  the  relief 
of  my  mind.  The  husband  expressed  his  thankfulness  for 
the  visit. 

We  left  Spiceland  for  Raysville ;  stopped  with  Samuel 
Pritchard,  an  elder.  In  the  evening,  after  a  chapter  had 
been  read  in  the  Bible,  I  had  unexpectedly  to  myself  some- 
thing to  communicate  in  the  way  of  encouragement  to  faith- 
fulness, no  matter  what  surrounding  influences  we  might 
have  to  contend  with,  citing  them  to  Job  and  Noah  as  ex- 
amples. After  this  little  opportunity,  Samuel  showed  more 
openness  and  kindness  towards  us.  The  same  evening,  I 
laid  a  concern  before  them  that  rested  with  me  to  appoint 
a  meeting  in  that  neighborhood. 

The  next  day,  being  their  meeting-day  in  course,  they 
desired  we  would  attend, "but  for  reasons  already  spoken  of, 
we  could  not  comply.  We  made  them  acquainted  with  our 
objections  as  well  as  we  could,  but  could  not  satisfy  them  of 
the  propriety  of  our  refusal.  Samuel's  wife  said,  by  refusing 
to  attend  bur  meeting  and  requesting  one  appointed,  you  are 
throwing  yourselves  into  the  hands  of  those  who  do  not  know 
their  right  hand  from  their  left.  She  thought  the  heads  of 
the  meeting  would  not  allow  it.  But  after  consulting  with 
other  members,  it  was  concluded  we  might  have  a  meeting 
at  two  o'clock  that  afternoon.  It  was  held,  but  very  small, 
nearly  all  being  afraid  to  give  us  their  company,  fearing  the 
rulers,  and  that  they  would  lose  their  good  name.  The 
meeting  was  silent,  except  a  few  words  at  the  close,  which 


1868.]  ANN     BRANSON.  269 

were  these — "When  the  Lord  shuts  none  should  attempt  to 
open,  and  when  He  opens,  none  should  attempt  to  shut."  It 
was  a  very  suffering  season,  as  much  so  as  I  remember  to 
have  passed  through  in  a  religious  meeting. 

Samuel  Pritchard  took  us  that  evening  to  Carthage,  five 
or  six  miles  from  Raysville.  We  had  considerable  conver- 
sation on  the  road  relative  to  the  state  of  Society  in  that 
Yearly  Meeting  and  elsewhere,  which  I  hope  will  be  some 
advantage  to  Samuel. 

At  Carthage  we  put  up  at  Henry  Henley's,  an  elder.  We 
proposed  to  Henry  and  his  wife,  the  appointment  of  a  meet- 
ing on  the  afternoon  of  the  next  day.  It  being  their  meeting 
day  in  course,  they  urged  us  to  attend;  but  we  felt  con- 
strained to  bear  a  faithful  testimony  against  the  doings  of 
Indiana  Yearly  Meeting  and  its  subordinate  branches,  in 
uniting  with  and  owning  the  Binns'  Yearly  Meeting  of  Ohio, 
and  also  to  bear  a  faithful  testimony  against  the  unsound 
doctrines  and  practices  which  are  sweeping  Quakerism  from 
their  midst. 

Henry  laid  our  request  before  other  members  of  their 
meeting,  and  after  the  consultation,  we  were  informed  that 
there  was  not  a  freedom  on  the  part  of  those  consulted,  to 
grant  the  request.  I  asked  Henry  (in  the  presence  of  some 
others)  what  objections  they  had  to  our  having  a  meeting. 
He  replied,  that  one  objection  was  that  they  understood  that 
I  was  opposed  to  the  doctrines  of  Joseph  John  Gurney,  and 
that  their  Yearly  Meeting  (Indiana)  had  officially  acknowl- 
edged all  his  doctrines  to  be  sound,  &c.  William  Johnson, 
a  member  present,  said  that  my  objections  to  Joseph  John 
Gurney's  writings  was  not  the  only  reason  they  objected  to 
our  having  a  meeting.  Henry  replied,  it  was  the  first  ob- 
jection brought  forward.  Henry  then  informed  us  that 
Indiana  had,  through  a  document  introduced  into  the  Meet- 


270  JOURNAL    OF  [1868. 

ing  for  Sufferings  by  Elijah  Coffin,  and  approved  and  sanc- 
tioned by  that  meeting,  and  forwarded  to  the  Yearly  Meet- 
ing, and  fully  approved  and  endorsed  by  the  latter,  owned 
and  acknowledged  all  the  writings  of  Joseph  John  Gurney 
to  be  sound  and  scriptural.  I  told  them  that  those  unsound 
writings  of  J.  J.  Gurney  were  doing  just  what  Thomas  Shil- 
litoe,  on  his  death-bed,  said  they  would  do,  were  they  not 
suppressed.  They  have  spread  a  linsey  garment  over  the 
Society,  and  the  Society  was  gradually  going  down,  as  that 
devoted  servant  of  the  Lord  said  it  would,  if  they  were  cir- 
culated, and  suffered  to  pass  uncondemned  by  Friends. 

I  further  said,  they  are  sweeping  Quakerism  from  your 
midst.  Wilson  Hobbs,  a  doctor  in  the  village,  coming  in, 
and  being  as  I  apprehended  from  his  conversation  one  of  the 
fast  ones,  we  had  much  conversation  with  him  and  others 
present  in  a  very  plain  way.  It  seemed  laid  upon  myself 
and  the  Friends  with  me,  to  speak  out  boldly  for  the  Truth, 
without  the  fear  of  man.  One  present  (I  think  William 
Johnson)  remarked :  We  let  Methodists,  Presbyterians,  Uni- 
versalists,  &c.,  attend  our  meetings,  and  preach  amongst  us. 
I  said,  what  can  you  expect  from  the  young  people?  Friends 
have  a  testimony  against  a  hireling  ministry,  war,  formal 
preaching  and  praying,  &c.  You  admit  ministers  of  other 
denominations  amongst  you  who  have  no  testimony  against 
these  anti-Christian  practices ;  they  captivate  your  young 
people  by  their  eloquence  and  oratory,  and  many  are  drawn 
away  from  the  testimonies  and  principles  of  Friends;  whilst 
at  the  same  time  you  are  holding  out  the  view  that  the 
principles  of  Friends  are  spreading. 

Although  not  many  meetings  could  be  obtained  amongst 
them,  yet  I  thought  our  work  was  going  on  by  talking  with 
and  plainly  setting  forth  to  those  in  the  foremost  ranks,  the 
anti-Quaker  sentiments  and  practices  prevalent  amongst 


1868.]  ANN     BRANSON.  271 

them.  In  looking  towards  appointing  meetings  with  those 
not  professing  with  Friends  in  Indiana,  this  language  would 
immediately  spring  up — "  Into  any  city  of  the  Samaritans 
enter  ye  not.  But  go  rather  to  the  lost  sheep  of  the  house 
of  Israel." 

Henry  Henley  and  William  Johnson  took  us  to  Walnut 
Ridge,  and  we  put  up  at  Thomas  Hill's.  There  again  we 
requested  a  meeting,  but  it  could  not  be  obtained.  Thomas 
Hill  confirmed  the  statement  of  Henry  Henley  concerning 
the  official  acknowledgment  by  Indiana  Yearly  Meeting,  of 
the  doctrines  and  writings  of  Joseph  John  Gurney.  Thomas 
and  wife  appeared  to  be  much  distressed  on  account  of  the 
sad  state  of  things  in  this  meeting,  but  seemed  to  see  no  way 
to  help  it. 

On  the  12th,  we  took  the  cars  for  Indianapolis,  and  ar- 
rived at  Asa  Hunt's  on  the  evening  of  the  same  day.  We 
found  Asa  from  home,  but  proposed  to  his  wife  the  appoint- 
ment of  a  meeting  next  day  at  ten  o'clock.  She  said  she 
would  see  one  of  her  neighbors,  and  know  what  he  thought 
of  it.  Her  neighbor,  William  Hadley  came  in,  and  said  he 
could  not  speak  for  others,  but  as  for  himself  he  should  not 
favor  the  appointment.  He  said  there  was  to  be  a  meeting 
next  day  at  Plainfield,  of  the  Quarterly  Meeting's  commit- 
tee having  charge  of  Sabbath  schools,  and  most  of  their  mem- 
bers would  be  leaving  town  on  the  morning  train. 

I  felt  like  seeing  some  others  of  their  head  members,  and 
learning  that  Enos  Prey  lived  in  town,  William  Hadley 
went  with  cousin  Asa  to  his  house.  Pretty  soon,  Enos  (who 
is  a  minister)  and  a  woman  preacher  by  the  name  of  True- 
blood,  came  to  our  lodgings.  The  way  opened  for  conver- 
sation with  Enos  Prey,  which  tended  to  the  relief  of  my 
feelings.  Enos  said  he  had  read  considerable  of  the  writings 
of  J.  J.  Gurney,  and  was  also  familiar  with  the  doctrinal 


272  JOURNAL     OF  [1868. 

views  of  Fox  and  Barclay,  and  he  could  unite  with  all ;  he 
saw  no  discordance  in  their  doctrinal  views.  I  told  him 
that  was  strange ;  I  thought  there  was  a  great  difference. 
He  desired  me  to  cite  him  to  something  in  particular.  I 
cited  him  to  this  text — "  We  have  also  a  more  sure  word  of 
prophecy,  &c.,"  saying,  J.  J.  Gurney  calls  this  more  sure 
word  the  Scriptures ;  thou  knowest  this  is  not  the  doctrine 
of  Fox  and  Barclay. 

He  said  there  was  a  difference  of  opinion  amongst  people 
concerning  the  meaning  of  that  text.  I  told  him  there  was 
no  difference  of  opinion  amongst  those  who  were  Friends  in 
principle.  He  then  requested  me  to  mention  something  else, 
wherein  this  author  differed  from  Fox  and  Barclay.  I  cited 
him  to  this  declaration  of  Gurney — "  It  is  only  through  the 
religion  of  the  Bible,  that  we  can  obtain  an  adequate  notion 
of  sin."  Enos  then  adverted  to  the  benighted  state  of  the 
heathen,  before  they  became  acquainted  with  the  Scriptures. 
I  replied,  dost  thou  not  believe  in  the  universality  and  effi- 
cacy of  Divine  Grace? 

He  seemed  to  see  where  it  would  lead  him  to  defend  fully 
this  author's  views,  and  waived  the  subject,  saying,  Ann,  I 
would  caution  thee  not  to  speak  against  the  writings  of  Jo- 
seph John  Gurney ;  it  will  close  up  thy  way  amongst  us.  I 
let  him  know  that  if  I  felt  myself  called  upon  to  allude  to 
or  speak  against  those  unsound  and  anti-Quaker  doctrines, 
I  should  not  withhold  through  the  fear  of  man.  I  asked 
Enos  if  he  thought  ministers  of  the  gospel  were  at  liberty  to 
cut  and  carve  for  themselves,  to  preach  what  they  choose. 
I  said,  the  Lord's  prophets  of  old  did  not  do  so  to  please 
the  people. 

After  much  plain  talk  with  Enos  we  parted ;  he  said  he 
should  have  no  objection  to  our  having  a  meeting  if  it  were 
a  suitable  time.  The  woman  minister  present  kept  silent. 


1868.]  ANN     BRANSON.  273 

In  the  evening,  Asa  Hunt  came  home,  and  with  him  also, 
we  had  very  plain  talk  concerning  the  unsound  doctrines 
and  anti-Quaker  practices  which  were  destroying  the  So- 
ciety. 

Asa  thought,  by  admitting  ministers  of  other  denomina- 
tions into  their  meetings,  and  giving  them  liberty  to  preach, 
the  doctrines  and  testimonies  of  Friends  were  advanced.  It 
was  astonishing  to  hear  the  sentiments  of  old  men  and  heads 
of  meetings,  on  this  and  other  subjects  relative  to  the  wel- 
fare of  our  Society;  and  I  said  in  my  heart,  great  indeed  is 
the  mystery  of  iniquity,  as  well  as  of  godliness.  For  it 
seemed  that  the  very  things  which  were  destroying  the  So- 
ciety and  laying  it  waste,  were  looked  upon  by  many  as  cal- 
culated to  build  it  up.  Alas !  how  my  heart  was  pained 
within  me  on  account  of  these  things ;  and  I  found  it  neces- 
sary for  myself  and  companions,  to  keep  closely  on  the  watch 
tower,  not  fearing  with  the  fear  of  man,  lest  we  should  be 
confounded  before  them  and  desert  the  field  of  battle  before 
a  clear  acquittal  was  given  us  by  the  Captain  of  salvation. 

On  Seventh-day  morning  the  13th,  we  left  Indianapolis 
for  Plainfield,  in  Hendricks  Co.,  the  place  of  holding  the 
Western  Yearly  Meeting.  We  arrived  there  the  same  day, 
and  put  up  at  my  uncle  Asa  Holloway's,  where  we  were 
very  kindly  and  hospitably  entertained.  Finding  that  Jane 
Plummer  resided  in  the  village,  and  believing  it  would  be 
best  to  pay  her  a  visit,  her  sister  Hannah  Wright  being  then 
with  her,  we  accordingly  did  so.  Jane  Plummer  was  for 
several  years  Clerk  of  Ohio  Yearly  Meeting  of  women 
Friends,  previous  to  the  separation  of  1854 ;  but  when  the 
separation  occurred,  Jane  went  with  the  Gurneyites,  having 
given  her  strength  and  influence  to  that  party  for  several 
years,  and  acted  for  them  on  all  occasions,  greatly  to  the 
burden  and  grief  of  sound  Friends.  I  felt  no  personal 


274  JOURNAL    OF  [1868. 

grudge,  or  enmity  in  my  heart  towards  Jane  Plummer, 
neither  had  I  anything  whatsoever  premeditated  relative  to 
this  visit.  However,  during  our  stay,  mention  was  made  in 
some  way  of  the  Hicksites,  and  their  doctrine,  and  I  told 
Jane  that  when  I  was  in  Wilmington,  in  the  limits  of 
Philadelphia  Yearly  Meeting,  we  were  visited  by  a  Hick- 
site  preacher,  to  whom  I  said  that  Hicksism  on  the  one 
hand,  and  Gurneyism  on  the  other,  were  neither  of  them 
Quakerism,  but  entirely  the  opposite,  and  would  lead  away 
from  the  principles  and  testimonies  of  Friends.  Jane  ap- 
peared to  be  disconcerted  at  my  reference  to  Gurneyism, 
and  asserted  that  Joseph  John  Gurney's  writings  had  done 
a  great  deal  of  good  in  the  world.  I  told  her  that  Benjamin 
W.  Ladd  said  in  the  Meeting  for  Sufferings  that  he  con- 
sidered the  writings  of  this  au.thor  very  unsound,  he  had 
kept  some  of  them  locked  up  in  his  desk  as  unfit  for  his 
family  to  read.  Jane  remarked  that  the  only  objectionable 
publication  put  out  by  J.  J.  Gurney  was  the  first  edition  of 
his  peculiarities  ;  that  contained  a  few  sentiments  that  were 
somewhat  objectionable,  but  the  author  was  then  young,  and 
after  that  wo'rk  was  revised,  and  republished,  it  was  con- 
sidered sound  and  unobjectionable.  The  first  edition  of 
Gurney's  Peculiarities,  as  I  understand  it,  was  the  least  ob- 
jectionable of  all  his  numerous  publications,  and  when  it  was 
revised  and  enlarged,  and  the  name  of  the  book  changed  to 
Distinguishing  Views,  it  contains  more  that  is  not  in  accord 
with  Friends'  views.  I  told  Jane,  Thomas  Shillitoe's  views 
of  Joseph  John  Gurney's  writings  were  correct, — they  had 
spread  a  linsey  garment  over  the  Society,  and  it  was  going 
down  in  consequence  of  their  adoption  in  various  places. 
Cousin  Asa  referred  Jane  to  the  "Appeal  for  the  Ancient 
Doctrines."  She  replied  that  the  extracts  in  that,  from  Joseph 
John's  writings  were  garbled.  Cousin  Asa  asked  her  if  she 


1868.]  ANN     BRANSON.  275 

thought  Enoch  Lewis  (who  was  a  prominent  member  of  the 
Meeting  for  Sufferings,  and  an  advocate  for  Joseph  John) 
would  suffer  garbled  extracts  to  go  out  before  the  world  ? 
She  still  persisted  that  they  were  garbled.  After  this  visit 
to  Jane  Plummer,  I  requested  that  the  elders  and  others 
concerned  might  be  consulted  in  reference  to  a  meeting  on 
First-day  afternoon,  for  the  inhabitants  of  Plainfield  and 
neighborhood.  There  were  several  collected,  elders  and 
ministers,  and  I  and  my  companions  being  requested  to 
join  them,  we  did  so.  Jane  Plummer  being  an  elder,  was 
the  first  to  object  to  a  meeting  being  appointed,  others  fol- 
lowed her  example,  and  the  question  was  soon  decided  in 
the  negative.  They  then  proposed  we  should  attend  their 
meeting  on  First-day  morning;  were  very  willing  to  hear 
anything  we  might  have  for  them ;  but  on  that  subject  we 
were  settled.  Cousin  Asa  told  them  there  was  principle  in- 
volved, and  we  could  not  attend  their  meetings.  Next 
morning,  one  of  their  ministers  came  to  our  lodgings.  He 
said  he  was  come  to  give  us  a  kind  and  hearty  invitation  to 
attend  their  meeting  that  morning.  The  invitation  appeared 
to  be  on  behalf  of  those  who  had  been  consulted  the  evening 
before.  But  we  were  not  to  be  taken  in  their  trap,  and  so 
declined. 

On  Second-day,  the  15th,  we  left  Plainfield  for  Chicago, 
where  we  arrived  next  morning  about  six  o'clock,  and  went 
to  my  nephew  William  Sharp's.  Staid  there  until  the  17th, 
and  then  took  the  cars  for  Cedar  Co.,  Iowa,  and  next  day 
reached  our  kind  friends  and  relatives,  John  and  Miriam 
Thomas,  at  Hickory  Grove,  where  a  large  settlement  of 
Friends  reside,  members  of  Ohio  Yearly  Meeting.  We  at- 
tended their  meeting  on  First-day,  the  21st,  which  was  quite 
large.  I  felt  my  mind  impressed  with  the  belief  that  there 
were  some  present  in  great  danger  of  being  drawn  away 


276  JOURNAL    OF  [1868. 

from  the  Truth  as  it  is  in  Jesus,  by  listening  to  the  insinua- 
tions and  reasonings  of  those  who  profess  to  believe  that  the 
Almighty  is  too  kind  and  gracious  towards  his  creature 
man,  to  condemn  any  to  everlasting  punishment  after  death, 
no  matter  what  their  sins  may  have  been,  or  how  impeni- 
tent they  may  continue  to  the  very  last.  I  had  to  warn  the 
people  against  this  sin-pleasing  doctrine,  as  being  one  of  the 
subtle  baits  of  the  grand  adversary  of  man's  peace  and  hap- 
piness here  and  hereafter.  I  dwelt  somewhat  upon  the  sub- 
ject, and  afterwards  felt  peaceful  and  easy.  A  young  woman 
after  this  meeting,  acknowledged  that  her  strongholds  were 
broken  up.  She  had  been  pleading  in  defence  of  this  uni- 
versalian  doctrine,  but  now  she  saw  her  error,  and  appeared 
very  much  contrited.  May  it  last,  has  been  my  desire  for 
her.  At  this  meeting,  a  woman  sitting  in  the  second  gallery 
appeared  in  the  ministry.  While  she  was  speaking,  although 
I  could  not  hear  a  word  she  said,  I  felt  my  mind  impressed 
with  the  belief  that  she  had  come  from  the  Gurney  meeting, 
I  was  looking  for  some  one  to  request  her  not  to  disturb  the 
meeting,  but  it  was  not  done.  I  asked  a  Friend  who  this 
woman  was,  and  where  from.  She  said  that  she  had  been 
going  to  the  Gurney  Meeting  for  eleven  years,  but  had  be- 
come dissatisfied  and  recently  attended  Friend's  meetings, 
and  nearly  always  spoke  when  she  came.  I  felt  much  dis- 
tressed, and  could  not  get  rid  of  the  uneasiness  which  her 
appearance  produced  on  my  mind,  but  I  kept  my  thoughts 
closely  to  myself.  We  staid  until  after  their  Monthly  Meet- 
ing, which  was  held  on  the  24th.  Previously  I  was  impressed 
with  a  belief  that  this  woman,  at  the  Monthly  Meeting,  would 
appear  in  supplication,  and  great  were  my  exercises  that  I 
might  be  kept  from  hurting  the  precious  Truth,  and  it  was 
made  plain  to  me  by  my  heavenly  Father,  that  I  must  keep 
my  seat  when  she  thus  appeared.  And  to  meeting  I  went 


1868.]  ANN     BRANSON.  277 

under  great  exercise,  knowing  the  woman  had  gained  the 
sympathies  of  Wny  in  the  meeting,  and  had  been  promoted 
to  a  high  seat  conb^ry  to  gospel  order,  she  not  being  known 
as  a  member  amongst^firiends.  I  mentioned  my  thoughts 
to  no  one,  but  at  the  Monthly  Meeting,  when  she  knelt  in 
supplication,  I  and  my  companions  kept  our  seats,  and  one 
other  Friend  in  the  gallery  followed  our  example.  After 
meeting,  several  Friends  came  to  our  lodgings,  to  whom  I 
expressed  my  concern  relative  to  this  woman,  whom  they 
had  recognized  by  their  actions  as  a  minister  in  unity  with 
them.  We  laid  the  subject  fairly  before  them,  showing  what 
the  Discipline  says  in  regard  to  those  coming  amongst  us, 
appearing  as  members  without  producing  certificates,  for 
this  individual  had  neither  produced  a  certificate,  nor  been 
in  any  way  received  into  membership  amongst  them.  I  saw 
there  was  a  restless  spirit  in  the  woman,  and  that  she  had 
to  a  considerable  extent,  deceived  many  Friends  of  that 
meeting,  as  well  as  some  elsewhere,  so  that  they  had  pro- 
moted her  contrary  to  Discipline  and  true  gospel  order. 

Left  Cedar  County  on  the  25th,  accompanied  by  John 
Thomas,  who  took  us  to  Coal  Creek,  in  Keokuk  Co.,  a  dis- 
tance of  seventy  miles,  where  there  is  a  large  Monthly 
Meeting  belonging  to  Ohio  Yearly  Meeting.  At  Iowa  City 
we  dined  at  John  Lee's  ;  his  wife  was  a  cousin  of  mine  and 
a  daughter  of  Isaac  and  Sarah  Branson.  Her  mother  was 
a  precious  Friend,  and  died  before  her  children  were  fully 
grown.  She  was  much  concerned  that  they  might  be  brought 
up  right  and  be  consistent  Friends.  This  eldest  daughter 
has  left  Friends  and  joined  the  Methodists.  I  had  a  religious 
opportunity  with  her  and  son  and  father,  but  my  feelings 
were  painful  and  sad,  to  see  such  who  had  had  so  many 
favors  conferred  upon  them  in  the  way  of  admonition  and 
advice  by  a  beloved  parent,  leaving  the  footsteps  of  the 


•278  JOURNAL   OF  [1868. 

flock,  and  going  into  outward  forms  and  ceremonies  which 
can  never  make  the  comers  thereunto  perfect.  The  evening 
of  this  day  we  reached  Joseph  Holloway's,  son  of  my  uncle 
Robert  Holloway.  Had  an  appointed  meeting  next  day  in 
this  neighborhood.  It  being  harvest  time,  the  meeting  was 
not  large,  but  we  were  favored  to  relieve  our  minds  to  the 
strangers  present,  and  I  felt  thankful  that  I  gave  up  to  the 
requisition.  The  weather  being  very  warm  and  the  road 
dusty,  I  was  well  nigh  spent,  and  unable  to  travel  that  af- 
ternoon ;  having  been  so  smothered  and  filled  with  dust  the 
day  before  that  I  felt  like  being  really  sick,  but  next  day 
we  ventured  onward  and  were  favored  to  reach  Coal  Creek 
on  the  evening  of  the  27th,  and  stopped  with  our  relatives 
John  and  Lydia  Hoge,  where  we  were  very  kindly  received 
and  entertained. 

On  First-day,  the  28th  of  Sixth  Month,  attended  Coal 
Creek  Meeting,  which  was  very  large.  After  meeting,  dined 
with  Lemuel  and  Mary  Brackin,  also  spent  some  time  with 
Richard  Brackin  and  family,  and  several  of  their  relatives, 
and  had  a  religious  opportunity  with  them.  The  same  af- 
ternoon, visited  Amy  Clendenon,  who  was  suffering  with  a 
cancer,  and  had  a  religious  opportunity  with  her  and  the 
family.  My  mind  was  greatly  exercised  on  behalf  of  the 
children  present,  that  they  might  be  in  earnest  above  all 
things,  to  make  their  calling  and  election  sure,  and  I  felt 
such  a.  weight  of  concern  for  them,  that  it  was  hard  for  me 
to  leave  them  or  to  get  relief.  Since  that  visit,  a  married 
daughter  then  present,  and  in  good  health  at  that  time,  has 
changed  this  state  of  existence  for  a  never-ending  eternity. 
On  her  death-bed  she  remarked  that  she  had  been  too  much 
unconcerned  about  her  latter  end  (or  words  to  this  import) 
and  now  her  body  was  so  racked  with  pain,  that  she  had 
scarcely  a  moment  for  reflection  or  any  time  to  prepare  for 


1868.]  ANN     BRANSON.  279 

death,  desiring  others  to  take  warning  by  her.  Oh,  the 
necessity  for  every  moment  to  be  rightly  spent ;  may  my 
spirit  deeply  ponder  the  worth  of  time — precious  time  of 
more  value  than  gold,  or  all  earthly  grandeur,  riches  or 
honor — precious  time,  how  it  is  murdered  by  the  sons  and 
daughters  of  men. 

On  the  29th  and  30th  we  visited  several  families  in  this 
neighborhood,  and  had  religious  opportunities  in  them  all. 

Seventh  Month  1st. — Attended  Coal  Creek  Preparative 
Meeting,  and  had  considerable  to  communicate  therein. 
On  the  2nd,  we  started  for  Warren  County,  but  a  sudden 
swell  of  the  waters  occasioned  by  a  heavy  rain  the  night 
previous,  had  carried  away  the  bridge  across  a  creek  we  had 
to  cross,  so  we  could  not  proceed.  Returned  and  called  at 
Abraham  BonsalPs.  After  dinner  requested  a  religious  op- 
portunity with  the  family ;  but  the  son  would  not  give  us 
his  company.  When  we  were  about  to  leave,  I  addressed 
a  few  words  to  him.  He  said  he  had  nothing  against  us, 
but  Friends  had  disowned  him  for  going  to  the  war,  which 
he  believed  to  be  his  duty,  and  thus  he  had  taken  offense. 
Poor  young  man,  my  heart  yearned  for  him,  and  towards 
him,  for  he  seemed  to  be  in  the  gall  of  bitterness,  if  not  in 
the  bond  of  iniquity.  Went  to  the  creek  again,  trying 
another  road,  but  could  not  cross.  Returned  and  called  at 
T.  P's,  and  staid  till  after  tea ;  had  a  religious  opportunity 
with  the  parents  and  daughter,  the  only  child  at  home.  In 
this  sitting  I  was  singularly  led  to  encourage  to  a  faithful 
confession  one  to  another  of  our  misses,  whenever,  and 
wherever  the  Truth  required,  keeping  nothing  back,  nor 
counting  nothing  too  hard  to  do,  or  to  bear  for  the  sake  of 
true  peace  of  mind.  It  was  hard  for  me  to  get  relief,  having 
to  recount  some  of  my  own  experiences  in  regard  to  acknow- 
ledging my  faults,  which  had  brought  true  peace,  when 


280  JOURNAL    OF  [1868. 

nothing  short  thereof  could  afford  relief.  When  we  were 
about  to  leave,  the  father  of  this  family  said  that  this  had 
been  to  him  a  very  acceptable  visit,  and  desired  we  would 
call  again  if  way  opened  for  it.  This  was  an  unexpected 
word  of  encouragement  to  me,  not  knowing  why  I  was  thus 
led.  The  same  evening  called  at  Evan  Smith's,  whose  son 
was  sick  ;  they  had  a  small  house  and  a  family  of  ten  chil- 
dren all  at  home.  After  a  religious  opportunity,  returned 
to  John  Hoge's. 

In  all  the  families  we  visited  in  this  neighborhood,  I  felt 
the  necessity  laid  upon  me  to  request  a  religious  opportunity 
before  leaving  them,  and  felt  peace  in  so  doing. 

On  the  3rd  we  again  started  for  Warren  County.  The 
following  circumstance  occurred  on  this  day.  A  young  man 
being  desirous  to  cross  a  river  near  the  town  in  which  he 
had  been  working,  in  order  to  spend  the  4th  of  this  month 
as  is  the  manner  of  very  many  in  our  country,  in  a  vain  and 
irreligious  way,  resolved  at  the  hazard  of  his.  life  to  venture 
across.  He  was  warned  by  a  man  returning  from  the  river, 
that  it  was  not  safe  to  venture.  The  young  man  replied,  he 
was  bound  to  cross  if  he  had  to  swim.  And  leaving  his 
buggy  and  one  horse  by  the  river  side,  and  mounting  the 
other,  he  ventured  in,  and  next  day  his  body  was  found  in 
the  river.  The  horse  he  attempted  to  cross  the  river  on,  was 
found  on  the  opposite  side  from  the  one  left  with  the  buggy  • 
the  life  of  the  poor  animal  was  saved,  whilst  that  of  his  pre- 
sumptuous rider  was  suffered  to  go.  Poor  young  man,  re- 
solved to  have,  and  permitted  to  take  his  own  course,  where 
did  it  land  him  ?  Oh,  that  the  young  and  rising  generation 
would  take  warning,  whilst  life,  health  and  opportunity  are 
given,  to  make  their  calling  and  election  sure. 

On  the  evening  of  the  4th  we  arrived  at  the  house  of  my 


1868.]  ANN    BRANSON.  281 

relative,  Elisha  Smith,  a  distance  of  sixty-five  or  seventy 
miles  from  Coal  Creek. 

Next  day  being  First-day,  we  proposed  the  appointment  of 
a  meeting  at  three  o'clock  in  the  afternoon  for  those  pro- 
fessing with  Friends,  and  others  in  the  neighborhood  (Three 
Rivers.)  The  meeting  was  held,  though  very  irregular  in 
gathering  in  consequence  of  some  being  dipped  in  the  river 
near  by.  When  that  was  over,  many  came  to  our  meeting, 
more  than  the  house  could  hold ;  and  finally  settled  down 
into  more  quietude  and  stillness  than  appeared  for  a  time 
would  be  the  case ;  and  opportunity  was  afforded  to  relieve 
my  mind  amongst  them  in  a  good  degree. 

Next  day  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  Hartford,  a  little 
village  three  miles  from  Three  Rivers.  It  was  held  in  the 
evening,  although  not  large,  was  to  the  relief  of  my  mind. 
After  meeting,  we  were  kindly  invited  by  a  Presbyterian 
and  his  wife  to  lodge  with  them.  We  went  to  their  house, 
but  a  woman  followed  us,  earnestly  desiring  that  part  of  our 
company  at  least  would  lodge  with  her ;  which  I  and  my 
companion,  Abigail  Sears,  concluded  to  do.  Before  leav- 
ing, I  asked  the  man  (the  Presbyterian),  if  he  thought  it 
was  contrary  to  Scripture  for  a  woman  to  preach.  He  re- 
plied, "No;  I  know  some  people  do,  but  I  have  considered 
this  passage  of  Scripture :  '  Male  and  female  all  one  in 
Christ ;'  and  I  do  not  consider  it  contrary  to  Scripture  for 
a  woman  to  preach."  He  was  a  sober,  serious  countenanced 
man,  and  I  had  some  interesting  conversation  with  him  and 
his  wife  before  leaving.  Where  Abigail  and  I  lodged,  we 
found  them  very  kind,  and  glad  of  our  company.  Next 
morning  we  started  on  our  way  back  to  Coal  Creek,  and  got 
to  Job  Briggs',  near  Oskaloosa,  about  sundown. 

Next  morning,  the  8th  of  the  month,  I  queried  with  Job 
and  his  wife  if  there  would  be  a  willingness  on  their  part 
19 


282  JOURNAL    OF  [1868. 

that  we  should  have  an  appointed  meeting  that  afternoon 
in  their  neighborhood.  He  very  quickly  replied  in  the  nega- 
tive. I  asked  him  if  he  would  be  willing  to  consult  some 
of  his  neighbors.  He  said  he  would,  and  went  to  his  neigh- 
bor, Clark  Terrell,  but  soon  returned  with  the  same  decision 
as  he  first  gave.  I  was  not  at  all  disappointed  at  their  re- 
fusal, being  well  acquainted  with  their  sentiments  and  doings 
in  Society  matters  when  they  lived  in  Ohio,  and  knew  them 
both  to  be  Gurneyites. 

We  then  left  Oskaloosa  and  returned  to  Coal  Creek. 
Great  is  and  has  been  the  mercy  and  kindness  of  our  Heav- 
enly Father  in  preserving  us  through,  and  in  extremities 
both  outwardly  and  inwardly ;  I  believe  it  was  the  warm- 
est weather  that  I  remember  ever  to  have  experienced ;  and 
yet  we  and  our  horses  sustained  no  injury  in  travelling, 
though  the  thermometer  was  generally  over  an  hundred  for 
days  together. 

On  the  llth  attended  Coal  Creek  Monthly  Meeting  of 
Friends,  and  on  the  12th,  being  First-day,  had  an  appointed 
meeting  in  the  afternoon  for  the  young  people.  It  was  large 
and  afforded  some  relief  to  my  exercised  mind,  my  cousin 
also  having  service  therein. 

We  had  religious  opportunities  in  several  familes  before 
leaving  the  neighborhood,  to  the  relief  of  ray  mind  in  a  good 
degree.  There  are  many  young  and  middle  aged  Friends 
belongipg  to  our  Yearly  Meeting  settled  in  this  section  of 
country.  Oh,  how  my  spirit  yearns  for  their  eternal  wel- 
fare, that  they  may  grow  in  grace  and  in  the  knowledge  of 
the  Truth  as  it  is  in  Jesus. 

On  the  14th,  in  company  with  our  friend,  Nathan  War- 
rington,  who  was  our  pilot  and  coachman,  we  set  out  for 
Springville,  in  Linn  County.  The  first  day  we  rode  about 
forty  miles,  and  got  to  the  house  of  Thomas  and  Mary 


1868.]  ANN     BRANSON.  283 

Emmons,  in  Benton  County,  where  a  few  families  of  Friends 
are  settled. 

On  the  next  evening  we  had  an  appointed  meeting,  held 
at  a  school  house  not  far  from  Thomas  Emmons'.  It  being 
harvest  time,  and  the  people  appearing  to  be  more  concerned 
about  getting  their  luxuriant  crops  harvested  than  attend- 
ing meetings,  but  few  gave  us  their  company.  However, 
there  were  several  young  people  and  children  present,  and 
a  few  older  ones,  to  whom  the  word  of  exhortation  and  coun- 
sel was  extended  in  the  love  of  the  gospel.  On  the  evening 
of  this  day,  some  friends  coming  in,  we  had  a  religious  op- 
portunity with  them  and  the  family  where  we  put  up,  which 
was  relieving  to  my  feelings  in  some  measure. 

Next  morning,  the  16th,  we  again  set  out  for  Linn  County, 
and  arrived  at  Lindley  Hoyle's,  at  Springville,  a  little  after 
night.  His  wife,  with  whom  we  were  previously  acquainted, 
appeared  very  glad  to  see  us.  She  is  a  well-concerned 
young  woman,  and  if  attentive  to  the  Saviour's  voice,  will 
be  helpful  to  her  husband  and  those  she  associates  with,  in 
the  best  things.  We  paid  a  few  visits  on  the  17th,  and  on 
the  18th  attended  Springville  Monthly  Meeting,  held  at 
Hopewell.  After  meeting  went  to  see  William  Hampton, 
who  with  his  family,  and  one  other  family,  meet  together 
separate  from  Friends,  holding  what  they  called  a  Friends' 
Meeting.  We  endeavored  to  set  before  William  the  incon- 
sistency of  his  course,  but  he  had  evidently  got  into  his 
strong  holds,  and  nothing  we  could  say  would  induce  him 
to  relinquish  the  ground.  However,  we  felt  satisfied  in 
having  cleared  ourselves  to  him,  and  of  him.  Lodged  that 
night  at  Aquila  Crew's,  and  had  an  interesting  visit  with 
their  large  family. 

Next  morning  went  to  see  James  Doudna  and  family. 
They  are  one  of  the  two  which  make  up  the  separate  meet- 


284  JOURNAL    OF  [1868. 

ing.  James  being  from  home,  we  had  no  opportunity  with 
the  family. 

Attended  Hope  well  Meeting,  and  was  silent  therein.  In 
the  afternoon,  attended  a  meeting  at  Springville,  appointed 
at  rny  request  for  the  young  and  youngish  people  in  the 
neighborhoods  of  Springville  and  Hopewell.  The  meeting 
was  very  large,  and  I  trust  to  some  degree  of  edification. 
My  cousin  Asa,  as  well  as  myself,  had  considerable  service 
therein. 

On  Second-day,  the  20th,  accompanied  by  William  Be- 
dell and  wife,  we  made  a  visit  to  Caleb  Gregg  and  wife. 
Caleb  was  one  who  several  years  ago  assisted  in  setting  up 
a  meeting  in  Iowa,  which  was  not  in  the  ordering  of  best 
wisdom,  and  a  blast  and  mildew  attended.  Caleb  is  now  a 
Member  of  no  meeting,  and  although  he  attends  Friends' 
meeting  at  Springville  and  wishes  to  be  a  member  thereof, 
yet  he  is  not  willing  to  condemn  to  the  satisfaction  of  Friends, 
his  previous  course  of  conduct,  hence  Friends  are  not  free 
to  receive  him.  I  and  my  cousin  Asa  had  much  plain  talk 
with  him  in  the  presence  of  his  wife,  and  before  the  Friends 
who  accompanied  us,  and  also  in  the  presence  of  two  other 
Friends.  I  told  Caleb  I  did  not  see  how  he  could  feel  satis- 
fied without  publicly  condemning  the  course  he  had  pursued 
in  the  setting  up  of  that  meeting,  as  he  acknowledged  their 
planning  and  contriving  the  matter  out  of  doors  was  wrong. 
So,  if  the  first  step  was  wrong,  that  which  followed  must 
have  been  wrong  also.  I  thought  he  appeared  too  self-whole 
to  be  in  a  suitable  disposition  to  see  or  condemn  his  errors. 
We  left  them  under  feelings  of  painful  solicitude  for  their 
recovery  from  that  which  stands  in  their  way  of  obtaining 
true  peace  of  mind,  and  becoming  united  to  their  friends  in 
the  bond  of  gospel  fellowship. 

Whilst  there,  I  saw  a  young  woman  passing  about,  who 


1868.]  ANN    BRANSON.  285 

I  thought  might  be  their  daughter;  and  when  we  were 
about  to  leave,  I  went  into  the  dining-room  to  bid  her  fare- 
well, and  found  her  and  a  young  man  sitting  at  the  supper 
table.  I  enquired  if  they  were  Caleb's  children,  and  found 
they  were.  I  felt  my  mind  drawn  to  address  them  in  the 
love  of  the  gospel  in  the  presence  of  their  mother,  and  felt 
true  peace  in  doing  so;  but  felt  that  the  young  man  was  on 
dangerous  ground.  Their  father  came  in  before  I  closed 
my  communication,  and  I  think  the  parents  were  not  dis- 
satisfied with  what  I  said.  Oh,  how  my  heart  yearns  for 
the  children,  and  my  prayer  was  and  is,  that  the  Lord  may 
have  mercy  on  them. 

Lodged  at  Joseph  Embree's,  and  started  next  morning 
early  to  Cedar  County,  and  got  to  our  cousin  John  Thomas' 
the  evening  of  the  same  day,  about  forty  miles  from  Spring- 
ville. 

23rd. — Attended  Hickory  Grove  Monthly  Meeting,  and 
in  pursuance  of  a  concern  which  had  attended  my  mind 
since  being  at  that  Monthly  Meeting  before,  of  visiting  the 
families  thereof  as  way  might  open,  also  some  families  not 
members.  I  laid  the  subject  before  the  meeting,  and  had 
its  full  concurrence.  Great  were  my  exercises  during  this 
family  visit,  but  I  felt  that  we  must  not  desert  the  field  un- 
til the  word  of  release  was  sounded  by  the  Captain  of  sal- 
vation. 

It  was  harvest  time,  their  crops  very  abundant,  and  help 
scarce ;  so,  that  going  from  house  to  house,  and  calling  the 
men  from  their  harvest-fields  to  sit  down  with  us  to  wait 
upon  the  Lord,  appeared  to  some,  no  doubt,  as  a  strange 
thing,  and  hardly  warrantable  in  the  Truth ;  but  such  was 
the  pressure  upon  my  spirit  that  I  dare  not  omit  to  do  so. 
Generally  there  appeared  a  willingness  to  receive  the  visit. 
At  one  house  where  we  called,  the  woman  being  a  member, 


286  JOURNAL    OF  [1868. 

and  her  husband  not,  the  Friend  with  us  asked  if  we  would 
have  a  choice  in  having  the  husband  called ;  I  replied  that 
I  would.  The  Friend  went  where  the  man  was  working, 
and  invited  him ;  after  awhile  he  came,  and  as  soon  as  I  saw 
him  I  thought  to  myself,  thou  hast  a  hard  countenance, 
though  I  had  never  seen  the  man.  before,  neither  did  I  then 
know  that  I  had  ever  heard  of  him.  When  we  sat  down 
together,  the  subject  of  preparing  for  our  latter  end  whilst 
we  had  time  and  opportunity  afforded  was  brought  before 
me,  and  the  necessity  of  using  all  diligence  to  make  our 
calling  and  election  sure,  which  I  expressed,  and  also  said 
that  some  people  did  not  believe  in  a  place  of  punishment 
hereafter  for  the  wicked  and  guilty  soul,  that  there  were 
some  who  called  themselves  Universalists,  of  this  class  I  did 
not  know,  I  added,  that  anyone  present  was  of  this  belief. 
He  replied,  "I  am  one,"  and  he  several  times  proposed 
leaving;  but  his  wife  telling  him  I  could  not  hear  anything 
he  said,  prevailed  upon  him  to  keep  his  seat.  Oh,  what  a 
dark  man ;  the  darkness  was  to  be  felt,  as  well  as  seen  in 
his  countenance.  When  I  bid  him  farewell  he  said  to  me, 
Ann,  thee  is  ignorant,  thee  wants  information.  I  told  him 
that  I  desired  for  myself,  and  for  him,  that  we  might  attend 
to  the  teachings  of  the  holy  Spirit  to  enlighten  our  hearts, 
&c.  He  replied,  that  was  his  guide,  or  words  similar. 

Poor  man !  my  heart  did  ache  for  him,  and  I  felt  the 
spirit  of  supplication  given  me  on  his  behalf,  and  had  vo- 
cally to  utter  a  prayer  for  him. 

The  same  evening,  paid  a  religious  visit  to  my  cousin 
William  Branson  and  family,  and  called  to  see  another 
cousin  who  was  ill ;  both  opportunities  to  the  relief  of  my 
mind.  This  closed  the  family  visit  in  that  Monthly  Meet- 
ing, and  I  felt  at  liberty  to  look  towards  home ;  and  we  made 
some  arrangements  for  starting.  But  the  Lord  saw  meet  to 


1868.]  ANN    BRANSON.  287 

disappoint  us,  and  suddenly  prostrated  me  by  a  severe  ill- 
ness, which  for  a  time  appeared  like  taking  my  life.  But 
He  who  had  often  brought  me  low  and  raised  me  up,  saw  fit 
to  relieve  my  extreme  suffering,  and  in  two  weeks  I  was 
able  to  ride  out. 

Hickory  Grove  Quarterly  Meeting  being  near  at  hand, 
I  felt  that  I  must  not  look  towards  returning  home  before 
it  occurred.  We  waited  until  after  another  Monthly  Meet- 
ing at  Hickory  Grove,  in  which  I  had  singular  service ;  then 
started  for  Linn  County,  where  the  Quarterly  Meeting  was 
held.  I  stood  the  ride  pretty  well,  though  quite  weak  in 
body. 

On  the  21st  of  the  Eighth  Month,  attended  the  Select  Pre- 
parative and  Select  Quarterly  Meetings,  both  held  the  same 
day ;  and  had  some  service,  but  weakness  is  prevalent. 

On  the  22nd,  the  Quarterly  Meeting  was  held ;  it  was  a 
very  large  gathering,  being  the  first  Quarterly  Meeting  held 
there.  Many  not  members  at  the  first  meeting. 

Next  day  being  First-day,  the  meeting  at  Springville  was 
very  large,  and  I  felt  that  I  must  open  my  mouth  in  warn- 
ing and  counsel  to  the  people,  which  I  did  to  the  relief  of 
my  mind.  Whilst  at  Springville  we  put  up  at  the  house  of 
our  friend  Parker  Askew,  who  with  his  wife  and  children, 
were  very  kind  to  us.  Parker  is  now  about  eighty  years 
old  ;  he  moved  to  Iowa  three  years  ago  ;  appears  very  cheer- 
ful, innocent  and  happy,  as  does  also  his  wife. 

We  left  Springville  on  the  evening  of  the  24th,  and  took 
the  cars  for  Ohio ;  had  a  dangerous  passage  across  Rock 
River  in  a  boat ;  the  bridge  having  been  burnt ;  but  were 
favored  to  cross  without  accident ;  several  hundred  passen- 
gers and  all  their  baggage  to  be  taken  across  in  small  skiffs 
and  boats. 

Reached  Chicago  on  the  evening  of  the  25th,  very  much 


288  JOURNAL    OF  [1868. 

fatigued.  Stopped  with  my  nephew  William  Henry  Sharp, 
and  was  not  able  to  be  out  of  bed  much  for  two  or  three 
days.  Feeling  a  concern  to  appoint  a  meeting  in  Chicago 
for  those  professing  the  name  of  Friends,  and  others  who 
might  incline  to  attend,  I  proposed  the  same  to  my  com- 
panions, and  to  my  nephew  and  niece.  Those  appointed 
to  the  station  of  elders  in  the  city  were  consulted,  or  some 
of  them,  but  gave  no  countenance  to  it.  I  knew  the  chief 
speaker  in  Ohio,  and  did  not  expect  his  consent  would  be 
obtained,  he  being  of  the  New  School,  and  a  bankrupt  in  his 
temporal  business. 

Left  Chicago  on  the  31st,  and  took  the  cars  for  home. 
Great  had  been  the  exercises  of  my  mind  whilst  we  tarried 
in  that  city,  for  the  wickedness  of  the  inhabitants  appeared 
to  me  to  be  very  great,  but  no  way  opened  for  my  relief. 
When  we  arrived  at  Columbus,  and  before  getting  there,  it 
had  rested  upon  my  mind  to  visit  an  inmate  of  the  Lunatic 
Asylum,  a  relative  of  mine,  who  had  been  conveyed  thither 
since  we  left  home,  but  I  suffered  discouragement,  and  reas- 
oning with  flesh  and  blood  to  prevail,  and  did  not  attend  to 
my  duty,  which  brought  trouble  upon  me.  The  dear,  de- 
sponding one  lived  but  a  short  time  afterwards,  and  I  had 
keenly  to  feel  my  miss :  I  wanted  to  tell  this  woman  that 
the  Lord  had  not  forsaken  her,  but  that  mercy  was  still 
round  about  her,  which  I  hope  she  realized  in  her  last  mo- 
ments. Oh,  how  sorrowful  that  any  should  despair  to  whom 
the  offers  of  mercy  are  still  held  out.  Oh,  my  soul,  trust 
thou  in  the  Lord  thy  God,  who  hath  done  marvellous  things 
for  thee,  and  despair  not  when  clouds  and  darkness  inter- 
vene, and  rest  upon  thee;  even  thick  darkness. 

We  arrived  home  on  the  2nd  of  Ninth  Month,  and  found 
my  dear  brother  Jacob  Branson,  very  ill  of  dysentery,  and 
very  anxious  to  see  us.  He  lived  until  the  13th,  and  then 


1868.]  ANN     BRANSON.  289 

gave  up  the  ghost.  Oh,  the  struggles  of  nature  in  that  hour 
of  death  :  but  we  believe  a  preparation  was  experienced  for 
the  solemn  change;  some  account  has  been  preserved  of  his 
illness  and  death. 

I  think  it  right  here  to  say,  that  whilst  we  were  at  my 
brother  Isaiah's,  a  great  concern  came  upon  me  on  account 
of  the  inhabitants  of  Richmond.  My  exercises  seemed  al- 
most unsupportable,  and  for  a  time  it  appeared  that  I  might 
have  to  go  through  the  streets  of  the  city  and  warn  them  to 
humble  themselves  before  the  "Great  I  Am,"  the  fear  and 
dread  of  nations ;  and  on  the  morning  we  left  for  the  west, 
as  we  came  to  the  city  to  take  the  cars,  it  seemed  as  if  I 
could  scarcely  leave  the  carriage  without  requesting  the 
driver  and  my  companions  to  take  me  to  Main  Street  and 
let  me  have  the  opportunity  to  deliver  what  was  on  my 
mind ;  but  I  forbore.  Oh  Lord,  forgive,  I  entreat  thee,  if 
in  this  thing  I  have  offended;  for  it  was  not  wilful,  but 
through  fear  that  the  call  was  not  strong  and  powerful 
enough.  Oh,  for  more  childlike  obedience  to  the  will  of  my 
heavenly  Father. 


CHAPTER  X. 

DEATH  OF  HER  COUSIN,  WILLIAM  WRIGHT  ;  AND  FURTHER  REMARKS  ON  THE 
LAST  DAYS  OF  HER  BROTHER  JACOB— APPOINTMENT  OF  MEETINGS  FROM 
AMONGST  FRIENDS — HOME  EXERCISES,  AND  LABORS  IN  THAT  VICINITY — 
A  VISIT  TO  SPRINGFIELD  QUARTER  ON  A  YEARLY  MEETING  APPOINT- 
MENT— FURTHER  EXERCISES,  AND  LABOR  ABOUT  HOME — A  TESTIMONY 
AGAINST  ATTENDING  AT  FAIRS — RELIGIOUS  SERVICE  AT  CONCORD — DEATH 
OF  JOSEPH  HOBSON,  AND  REMARKS  THEREON — DEATH  OF  JOSEPH  WILSON, 
AND  HER  FEELINGS  CONCERNING  HIM. 

After  the  death  of  my  brother,  I  had  a  turn  of  dysentery, 
so  as  to  preclude  the  prospect  of  attending  our  approaching 
Yearly  Meeting,  held  in  the  Tenth  Month ;  but  when  the 


290  JOURNAL     OF  [1868. 

time  came  for  starting,  through  a  grain  of  faith  and  the 
encouragement  of  my  cousin,  E.  Wilson,  I  set  out  for  Mount 
Pleasant.  But  several  times  whilst  riding  along  I  felt  so 
weak  and  faint  that  it  appeared  almost  impossible  for  me  to 
reach  my  lodgings,  and  after  getting  there,  and  a  return  of 
the  disorder,  and  the  want  of  faith,  made  me  think  I  had 
been  presumptuous  in  leaving  home  in  my  weak,  debilitated 
condition,  and  the  probability  seemed  that  I  should  be  pre- 
vented from  attending  Yearly  Meeting,  and  perhaps  end 
my  days  where  I  was.  But  after  the  Physician  of  value  had 
tried  and  proved  me  as  to  an  hair's  breadth,  He  quieted  both 
mind  and  body,  and  strengthened  me  to  attend  all  the  sit- 
tings of  the  Yearly  Meeting,  and  comforted  my  spirit  therein, 
so  that  I  could  say  as  I  have  often  said  from  some  sense  of 
the  healing  power  of  his  holy  hand  who  created  me,  noth- 
ing is  too  hard  for  the  Almighty. 

In  the  Eleventh  Month,  accompanied  by  my  cousins,  Asa 
Branson  and  Abigail  Sears,  I  attended  Salem  and  Spring- 
field Quarterly  Meetings,  and  returned  in  time  to  attend 
our  own,  which  occurred  in  the  same  month. 

Twelfth  Month  17th. — To-day  heard  of  the  death  of  my 
cousin,  William  Wright,  aged  nearly  eighty  years.  He  had 
been  quite  ill  for  some  days,  but  appeared  to  be  mending, 
and  thought  he  should  soon  be  well  enough  to  need  but  little 
attention  ;  but  whilst  sitting  in  his  chair,  his  attendant  per- 
ceived a  change,  and  he  passed  away  in  a  few  minutes. 

On  hearing  of  cousin's  death — his  disease  being  an  affec- 
tion of  the  heart — I  am  solemnly  reminded  that  I  too  who 
labor  under  the  same  disease,  may  pass  away  suddenly. 
Oh,  I  do  earnestly  crave  that  the  Lord's  hand  may  be  so 
turned  upon  me,  that  nothing  may  stand  in  my  way  of  ac- 
ceptance when  the  solemn  summons  shall  come.  Thou 
knowest  O  Lord !  that  the  earnest  breathings  of  my  spirit 


1868.]  ANN     BRANSON.  291 

day  and  night  are,  that  this  may  be  my  happy  experience ; 
be  pleased,  I  earnestly  pray  thee,  not  to  let  thine  hand  spare 
me,  nor  thine  eye  pity  me,  until  I  am  fitted  for  thy  king- 
dom. Oh,  Lord  !  look  down  with  an  eye  of  compassionate  re- 
gard upon  my  brother's  family,  whom  thou  hast  lately 
stripped  of  their  father,  and  turn  the  hearts  of  the  sons  and 
daughters  to  thee,  and  enable  the  mother  to  see  and  feel 
more  and  more  the  necessity  of  taking  the  children  and  sit- 
ting down  with  them  daily  in  solemn  silent  introversion  of 
soul,  waiting  upon  thee  for  counsel,  for  strength  and  help 
to  pursue  the  right  path,  the  path  that  leads  to  true  peace. 
It  is  now  a  little  more  than  three  months  since  the  death  of 
my  dear  brother,  whose  decease  at  that  time  was  a  very  unex- 
pected event  in  our  neighborhood,  but  we  have  the  consola- 
tion in  believing  that  his  affliction  was  sanctified  to  him, 
that  he  has  been  permitted  through  the  mercy  of  God  in 
Christ  Jesus  to  join  the  church  triumphant  in  heaven.  Oh, 
gracious  Father !  thou  hast  dealt  marvellously  with  me ; 
thou  hast  been  more  gracious  towards  my  soul  than  I  can 
possibly  set  forth ;  I  will  therefore  magnify  thy  name ;  I 
will  call  others  to  come  taste  and  see  that  thou  art  good,  as 
thou  commandest  and  givest  me  ability.  Thou  hast  I  fully 
believe,  answered  the  fervent  petition  of  my  heart  and  soul, 
and  the  fervent  petition  of  my  dear  departed  brother  Jacob, 
that  he  might  find  acceptance  and  remission  of  sins  through 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.  Yea  thou  didst  give  me  such  a  joyful 
feeling  the  evening  after  he  was  taken  away,  and  didst,  I  be- 
lieve, put  this  language  in  my  heart  as  an  evidence  of  his 
acceptance,  viz :  "  Joy  unspeakable  and  full  of  glory." 
And  thou  didst  give  me  to  feel  my  spirit  united  to  his  in  a 
song  of  praise  to  thee  thou  Holy  One.  Thou  didst  often 
put  a  prayer  in  my  heart  on  behalf  of  this  my  beloved 
brother  when  he  was  in  health,  by  day  and  by  night.  Thou 


292  JOURNAL    OF  [1868. 

didst  enable  me  to  raise  a  cry  unto  thee  for  the  preservation 
and  sanctification  of  this  brother,  as  well  as  for  the  rest  of 
my  brothers  who  are  still  living.  And  now  Oh  gracious 
Father,  deal  with  the  rest  of  my  father's  family  as  thou  hast 
with  those  taken  hence,  and  leave  us  not;  set  judgment  to 
the  line,  and  righteousness  to  the  plumb  line  in  the  temple 
of  our  hearts,  and  bring  all  things  into  a  conformity  with 
thy  holy  will.  Amen. 

19th. — Attended  the  funeral  of  my  cousin,  Wm.  Wright. 
It  was  a  large  gathering,  and  I  was  called  upon  by  my 
Heavenly  Father  to  warn  the  people  assembled  at  the  house 
of  the  deceased  to  set  their  spiritual  accounts  in  order  to 
meet  the  summons  of  death.  It  was  under  much  bodily 
weakness  that  I  spoke,  yet  I  was  strengthened  to  relieve  my 
mind.  Joseph  Hobson  spoke  a  few  words  at  the  grave? 
which  appeared  to  have  a  solemnizing  effect  upon  the  people. 

24th. — Attended  our  Monthly  Meeting,  held  at  Guernsey. 
The  weather  being  very  cold,  my  health  seemed  hardly  suf- 
ficient for  a  ride  of  ten  miles  over  rough  roads,  but  knowing 
the  Lord  could  strengthen  me,  and  enable  me  to  perform 
all  that  He  required  at  my  hands,  I  set  out  and  got  to  the 
meeting  pretty  well.  After  Monthly  Meeting,  I  thought  it 
right  to  remain  at  Guernsey,  having  a  prospect  of  appointing 
a  meeting  or  two  a  few  miles  from  that  place  amongst  those 
not  in  membership  with  Friends.  The  weather  becoming 
increasingly  cold,  and  my  health  poor,  everything  as  to  the 
outward  appeared  very  discouraging,  and  had  it  not  been 
for  that  grain  of  living  faith  which  removes  mountains,  I 
should  have  given  up  the  prospect.  But  about  noon  on  the 
25th,  I  queried  with  my  cousin  Joseph  Wilson,  at  whose 
house  I  then  was,  if  it  was  too  cold  for  him  to  turn  out  and 
appoint  two  meetings,  one  on  the  26th  and  the  other  on  the 
27th.  I  saw  his  faith  was  at  a  low  ebb,  as  he  afterwards 


1869.]  ANN     BRANSON.  293 

confessed  it  was,  but  he  made  no  objection,  and  turned  out 
in  the  cold,  and  a  stranger  pretty  much  to  the  inhabitants  of 
both  towns  where  the  meetings  were  to  be  appointed.  After 
he  started,  the  enemy  was  permitted  to  buffet  me  sorely  for  a 
little  time ;  but  the  Lord,  who  knew  that  the  desire  of  my 
heart  was  to  serve  Him  only  and  alone  in  this  matter,  lifted 
up  a  standard  against  him,  and  spoke  peace  to  my  mind,  and 
bade  me  trust  in  Him.  He  promised  to  still  the  piercing 
winds,  and  moderate  the  weather,  and  to  strengthen  me  in 
body  and  mind,  to  perform  the  service,  which  promise  He 
verified.  Next  morning  the  weather  was  much  milder,  and 
in  the  afternoon  we  went  to  Sewelsville,  a  distance  of  five 
miles,  and  attended  the  meeting  to  good  satisfaction. 

On  the  27th  we  went  to  Hendrysburgh,  a  distance  of  nine 
miles,  and  attended  the  appointed  meeting  in  that  town, 
which  was  large  and  satisfactory.  Many  spoke  to  us  after 
meeting  in  a  very  affectionate  manner,  showing  that  their 
hearts  had  been  reached,  and  that  they  were  thankful  for 
the  opportunity.  As  for  myself,  my  mind  was  kept  low, 
and  humbly  confiding  in  Him  who  had  so  graciously  cared 
for  and  favored  a  poor  worm,  to  preach  the  unsearchable 
riches  of  Christ  Jesus  to  the  people,  and  enabling  me  out  of 
weakness  to  become  strong,  so  that  I  can  say  He  doeth  all 
things  well. 

Fourth  Month  30th,  1869.— The  exercises  of  my  mind 
have  of  late  been  so  great,  that  I  have  feared  I  should  not 
be  enabled  to  endure  them.  Sleep  has  departed  from  mine 
eyes.  Tears  have  been  my  meat  day  and  night.  The  weak- 
ness and  wickedness  prevalent  in  the  land,  and  my  own 
weakness  and  shortcomings  staring  me  in  the  face,  are  al- 
most overwhelming  to  my  soul.  In  a  national  capacity  we 
have  been  scourged  and  afflicted,  but  we  are  not  humbled. 
Pride  and  wickedness  appear  more  prevalent  than  before 


294  JOURNAL     OF  [1869. 

the  late  bloody  war,  and  that  this  should  be  the  case,  who 
can  marvel,  since  war,  to  use  the  words  of  Robert  Hall,  "  is 
a  temporary  repeal  of  every  Christian  virtue."  Yet,  when 
we  reflect  that  thousands  and  tens  of  thousands  of  our  coun- 
trymen, have  in  the  late  struggle  been  sacrificed  on  the  field 
of  slaughter,  and  other  ways,  contrary  to  the  benign  religion 
of  Jesus,  which  teaches  us  to  love  our  enemies,  to  do  good 
to  them  that  hate  us,  &c.,  and  reflecting  upon  the  destitute 
condition  of  widows  and  orphans,  now  suffering  penury  in 
consequence  of  this  awful  scourge,  would  it  not  seem  rea- 
sonable to  suppose,  in  view  of  these  things,  that  more  humility 
would  be  apparent  than  is  to  be  found  anywhere,  whither 
our  eyes  or  footsteps  turn  ? 

Fifth  Month  7th. — I  long  to  be  amongst  the  number  who 
love  the  Lord  their  God  with  all  their  heart,  with  all  their 
soul,  and  with  all  their  might,  and  their  neighbor  as  them- 
selves ;  and  to  feel  that  I  really  come  up  to  this  Divine 
requisition.  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  me,  and  hasten  the 
day  when  everything  like  the  mountains  and  hills  of  oppo- 
sition in  my  heart  to  the  coming  and  setting  up  of  the  Re- 
deemer's kingdom  therein,  may  be  laid  low,  and  cast  as  it 
were,  into  the  sea.  I  am  a  wonder  to  myself,  so  poor,  so 
blind,  so  naked,  so  destitute  of  that  which  my  soul  desires, 
and  yet  having  more  than  I  deserve — having  a  little  grain 
of  living  faith — a  little  living  hope,  which  keeps  me  from 
sinking  into  hopeless  despondency. 

10th. — Oh  Lord !  be  graciously  pleased  to  keep  me  from 
falling  a  prey  to  the  destroyer.  Thou  knowest  he  is  daily 
and  hourly  seeking  to  take  me  captive  at  his  will.  I  will 
trust  in  thee,  O  my  God  !  hear  my  prayer  and  deliver  me 
from  sin  and  from  Satan. 

llth. — O  Lord !  keep  me  faithful  to  known  duty,  and 
patient  when  thou  art  pleased  to  hide  thy  face,  as  at  the 


1869.]  ANN     BRANSON.  295 

present  time — yet  thou  givest  me  ability  to  plead  with  thee 
for  the  continuation  of  thy  mercy,  which  I  acknowledge  as 
a  great  favor.  Amen  and  amen. 

19th. — Heavenly  Father !  be  pleased  to  show  me  the  way 
I  should  take  in  this  critical  time  ;  yes,  this  time  of  great 
conflict  between  flesh  and  Spirit,  between  hope  and  fear. 
Be  pleased  to  give  me  ability  to  say  in  sincerity  of  heart, 
Thy  will,  O  God,  be  done  in  earth  as  it  is  in  heaven,  so  I 
may  be  preserved  from  falling  into  the  snares  of  the  enemy 
on  the  right  hand  or  left. 

20th. — Attended  the  funeral  of  M.  K.,  a  large  and  mixed 
assembly  met  on  the  occasion,  and  my  God  who  hideth  his 
face  from  me  at  times,  so  that  my  faith  seems  nearly  gone, 
was  pleased  to  raise  me  up  out  of  a  low  place,  and  caused 
me  to  proclaim  the  gospel  of  life  and  salvation  to  the  people, 
both  at  the  house  and  at  the  grave  of  the  deceased.  My 
mind  has  been  under  much  exercise  of  latter  time,  partly 
owing  to  the  length  of  time  which  I  have  been  holding  a 
Minute  from  the  Monthly  and  Quarterly  Meeting  for  re- 
ligious service  in  the  West  and  in  my  own  State  ;  and  since 
my  return  from  the  West,  but  little  active  service  has  ap- 
peared to  be  required.  Only  now  and  then  the  appointment 
of  a  meeting  amongst  others  opens  before  me.  Had  a  meet- 
ing about  two  weeks  ago  in  the  town  of  Cadiz,  twelve  miles 
from  Flushing.  This  meeting  was  large  and  quiet,  and  quite 
satisfactory.  Out  of  great  weakness  I  was  made  strong  by 
the  Lord,  my  God.  For  some  days  previous  to  the  holding 
of  this  meeting,  the  exercises  of  my  mind  and  my  great 
weakness  were  altogether  indescribable,  insomuch  that  the 
language  of  my  heart  often  was — "  How  shall  I  be  able  to 
bear  the  great  weight  and  load  of  exercise  resting  upon  me  ? 
Sixth  Month  23rd. — Dearest  Father !  thou  seest  and  knowest 
the  great  extremity  I  am  in  with  regard  to  returning  my 


296  JOURNAL    OF  [1869. 

Minute.  O,  be  pleased  to  undertake  for  me,  for  thou  knowest 
the  depth,  length  and  breadth  of  the  enemy's  baits.  Oh, 
preserve  me,  I  entreat  thee,  from  falling  into  his  snares, 
which  are  laid  to  take  me. 

28th. — The  Lord  is  a  sun  and  a  shield  to  those  who  put 
their  trust  in  Him.  He  helped  his  servants  of  old,  and  for- 
saketh  them  not,  even  from  generation  to  generation.  When 
I  said,  my  flesh  and  my  heart  faileth,  thy  mercy,  O  God, 
held  me  up.  When  I  said,  my  foot  slippeth,  help  Oh  Lord, 
or  I  go  down  quickly  into  the  perdition  of  the  ungodly,  and 
cast  away,  as  did  Saul,  my  shield,  as  though  it  had  not  been 
anointed  with  oil ;  then  thou  didst  hear  my  cry  and  inter- 
pose thine  arm  of  power.  Thou  didst  lift  up  the  light  of  thy 
countenance,  and  gave  me  to  hope  and  trust  in  thee.  I  will 
extol  thee,  my  God  !  O  King,  for  thou  doest  for  me  great 
things,  and  that  my  soul  knoweth  right  well. 

Yesterday  I  had  an  appointed  meeting  at  St.  Clairsville, 
the  county  seat  of  Belmont  County.  It  was  held  in  the 
Presbyterian  meeting-house,  and  pretty  well  attended  by  the 
inhabitants  of  the  town.  Out  of  weakness  I  was  made  strong 
in  body  and  mind  to  declare  the  gospel  of  life  and  salvation 
to  the  people.  Oh,  what  a  dread  had  been  on  my  mind 
with  reference  to  this  place,  in  the  appointment  of  this 
meeting  ;  but  the  Lord  opened  my  eyes  amongst  the  people, 
and  opened  my  mouth  to  declare  the  whole  counsel  to  them. 
After  sitting  silently  for  some  time,  this  Scripture  passage 
presented  to  revive :  "  It  is  not  in  man  that  walketh  to 
direct  his  steps."  Then  added,  there  is  nothing  in  man  as 
pertaining  to  his  fallen  nature,  that  can  lead  and  guide  him 
in  the  path  of  peace.  Then  what  is  it  under  the  gospel  dis- 
pensation that  the  Lord  hath  given  to  be  a  guide  and  leader 
to  the  people.  Is  it  not  that  which  was  promised  by  the 
Most  High  through  the  mouth  of  his  Holy  Prophet,  quoting 


1869.]  ANN     BRANSON.  297 

Jeremiah,  chapter  31st,  verses  31,  32,  33.  This  law  written 
in  the  heart,  the  law  of  the  Spirit  of  life  in  Christ  Jesus, 
which  makes  free  from  the  law  of  sin  and  death,  is  given  to 
be  a  guide  and  leader  to  the  sons  and  daughters  of  men, 
under  the  gospel  dispensation ;  even  the  Spirit  of  Truth 
which  our  Saviour  promised  to  his  disciples,  should  lead 
into  all  Truth.  I  adverted  to  the  testimony  of  Judge  Hale 
relative  to  the  leadings  and  teachings  of  the  Holy  Spirit, 
and  recommended  all  present  to  take  heed  thereto ;  that  it 
never  led  any  to  deny  the  Holy  Scriptures,  nor  the  pro- 
pitiatory sacrifice  of  Christ  Jesus  on  the  cross.  I  had  to 
enlarge  somewhat  on  this  subject,  and  then  to  address  the 
infidels,  or  speak  to  and  of  that  class  who  deny  a  place  of 
punishment  hereafter  for  those  who  die  in  their  sins,  as  de- 
clared and  described  by  our  Saviour,  and  recorded  in  the 
Holy  Scriptures.  I  had  to  set  forth  the  nature  of  the  one 
true  and  saving  baptism,  the  baptism  of  fire  and  the  Holy 
Ghost;  how  it  cleanses  the  heart  and  is  the  only  essential 
baptism,  and  that  which  John  the  Baptist  declared  must 
increase,  whilst  his  watery  and  typical  baptism  must  de- 
crease. It  was  a  very  relieving  opportunity  to  me.  The 
people  were  quiet  and  attentive,  and  the  meeting  ended  to 
satisfaction.  Oh,  may  I  learn  to  trust  more  and  more  in 
Him  who  hath  all  power  in  Heaven  and  in  the  earth. 

Seventh  Month  2nd.  — Gave  way  improperly  to  reflect 
upon  others  in  thought  and  word,  which  left  me  weak  and 
wounded.  I  find  my  greatest  enemies  to  be  those  of  my  own 
household.  If  these  gain  the  ascendency,  then  weakness  and 
every  hurtful  passion  may  take  possession  of  the  mind. 

Oh  Lord !  preserve  me  from  the  baits  of  the  destroyer, 

whom  thou  knowest  is  more  busily  engaged  to  overcome  my 

faith,  and  weaken  my  strength  by  the  way,  than  almost  at 

any  former  period  of  my  life.  '  Have  mercy  upon  me,  O 

20 


298  JOURNAL    OF  [1870. 

God,  I  beseech  thee,  or  my  faith  and  hope  will  utterly  fail. 
Be  pleased  to  undertake  for  me,  that  I  be  not  wholly  over- 
come with  those  things  that  should  be  kept  under  foot. 

Eighth  Month  1st. — What  a  stupid  and  benumbed  con- 
dition we  appear  to  be  in  relative  to  the  soul's  best  .interest. 
Oh  Lord !  be  pleased  to  awaken  us  in  some  way  to  a  sense 
of  our  spiritual  condition ;  enable  us  to  cry  mightily  to  thee 
for  help  and  strength  to  come  up  out  of  our  graves  of  ease 
and  unconcern. 

Eleventh  Month. — Had  an  appointed  meeting  for  the 
colored  people  of  our  neighborhood.  It  was  well  attended, 
and  afforded  relief  to  my  mind.  After  this  meeting  I  re- 
turned the  Minute  to  the  Monthly  Meeting,  granted  me 
about  eighteen  months  ago  for  religious  service  in  the  west, 
and  in  our  own  State.  I  felt  that  it  was  the  right  time,  and 
ease  and  peace  of  mind  attended  me,  which  is  more  precious 
thau  all  the  treasures  of  the  world.  Friends  have  been  kind 
and  tender  towards  me  in  and  under  my  exercises,  which  I 
esteemed  a  favor. 

First  Month  14th,  1870.  is  now  on  a  bed  of  lan- 
guishing, and  probably  near  his  end.  My  mind  has  been 
so  exercised  for  him  for  some  time  past,  that  I  cannot  pur- 
sue my  accustomed  portion  of  daily  labor.  Oh  Lord !  if  it 
seem  good  unto  thee,  have  mercy  on  this  afflicted  man,  who 
when  time  and  opportunity  were  afforded  to  make  his  calling 
and  election  sure,  has  so  far  neglected  this  momentous  con- 
cern, as  to  be  unprepared  for  the  final  summons.  Oh,  for- 
sake him  not,  but  be  pleased  to  prolong  his  life  until  his  sins 
shall  have  been  washed  away  in  the  blood  of  the  Lamb,  if 
consistent  with  thy  will  to  show  him  mercy. 

18th. — Visited  the  sick  man  above  alluded  to,  and  de- 
livered the  message  given  me  for  him.  Oh,  how  nature 
shrinks  from  disturbing  the  false  rest  of  those  who  are  so 


1870.]  ANN    BRANSON.  299 

weak  in  body  as ,  and  yet,  unprepared  for  their  lat- 
ter end.  I  had  to  tell  this  suffering  man  that  this  language 
had  for  several  days  rested  on  my  mind  concerning  him-r- 
"  He  that  covereth  his  sins  shall  not  prosper ;  but  whoso 
confesseth  and  forsaketh  them  shall  have  mercy."  Oh,  how 
fearful  I  was  to  visit  him  lest  I  should  say,  or  leave  unsaid, 
that  which  I  ought  not ;  but  I  trust  I  did  not.  After  bow- 
ing in  vocal  supplication  by  his  bedside,  and  then  desiring 
him  to  pray  the  Lord  to  preserve  him  from  a  false  hope, 
and  a  false  rest,  I  bid  him  farewell. 

24th. — How  painful  have  been  the  exercises  and  conflicts 
attending  my  mind  for  some  days  past  on  account  of  the 
spiritual  condition  of  some  of  my  near  relatives,  and  on  ac- 
count of  the  sins  and  iniquities  abounding  in  the  land. 
Surely,  my  concern  for  the  dear  children  in  our  neighbor- 
hood, and  in  the  family  where  I  reside,  could  not  exceed 
my  present  exercises  and  feelings  of  prayerful  solicitude  on 
behalf  of  the  young  people  in  general.  Lord,  have  mercy 
upon  them  !  is  the.  daily  breathing  of  my  spirit,  whilst  I  am 
often  bowed  down  as  in  the  dust  on  account  of  the  things 
that  are  transpiring — things  which  the  Truth  does  not  own. 
I  will  go  softly  all  my  days  in  the  bitterness  of  my  soul. 

28th.  lingers,  contrary  to  the  expectation  of  his 

physicians  and  friends.  What  a  mercy!  Will  the  vital 
spark  continue  until  he  bows  in  reverent  humility  before 
the  Great  I  Am ;  or  will  he  refuse  to  let  go  of  that  which 
hinders  his  acceptance  with  the  Beloved  of  souls,  until  the 
strivings  of  the  Holy  Spirit  be  withdrawn.  Oh  Lord!  thy 
power  is  above  all  and  over  all,  break  in  pieces  the  will  of 
the  creature  and  give  strength  and  ability  to  say  in  the 
depths  of  humility,  thy  kingdom  come,  thy  will  be  done  in 
earth  as  it  is  in  heaven.  Amen,  and  amen. 

Second  Month  1st. — My  sorrows  are  stirred  within  me. 


300  .       JOURNAL     OF  [1870. 

I  have  but  little  respite  from  affliction  of  mind  on  account 
of  the  sad  state  of  things  in  Church  and  State.  By  revolting 
from  the  commands  and  precepts  of  Christ,  and  taking  our 
own  course,  what  a  sorrowful  state  of  things  is  presented  to 
our  view  amongst  those  professing  the  name  of  Friends,  and 
in  the  nation ;  murder,  drunkenness  and  lying,  and  almost 
every  other  immorality  seems  to  be  on  the  increase ;  and  my 
own  weakness  and  apparently  benumbed  condition,  adds  to 
my  affliction  ;  yet  amidst  all,  my  Heavenly  Father  gives  me 
some  ability  to  cry  unto  Him  for  preservation.  Will  not 
a  better  and  brighter  day  come? — not  perhaps  before  more 
judgments  are  poured  out  upon  us. 

18th. — Yesterday  was  our  Quarterly  Meeting,  held  at 
Flushing.  Silent  in  the  forepart,  except  a  few  words  from 
a  youngish  Friend.  I  am  greatly  satisfied  with  silent  meet- 
ings. When  the  presence  of  the  Lord  is  felt  to  gather  the 
mind  into  stillness,  what  can  be  more  strengthening  ? 

Third  Month  7th. — In  company  with  two  other  Friends, 
I  paid  a  visit  to  the  jail  of  Belmont  County,  and  had  an 
opportunity,  by  permission  of  the  sheriff,  with  three  indi- 
viduals who  had  been  convicted  of  murder.  The  first,  whose 
name  is  Carr,  is  sentenced  to  be  hung  on  the  25th  of  this 
month.  He  appeared  in  some  degree  to  feel  sensible  of  the 
great  crime  he  had  committed,  but  it  seemed  to  me  that  a 
species  of  insanity  attended  him.  My  feelings  were  such,  on 
being  with  this  poor  wretched  criminal,  as  cannot  well  be 
described.  He  has  certainly  been  a  very  wicked  young 
man ;  he  still  looks  young,  and  carries  the  marks  of  alien- 
ation from  the  path  of  peace  in  his  countenance.  He  ex- 
pressed a  hope  of  forgiveness  through  the  mercy  of  the  Sa- 
viour. Under  the  feelings  that  pervaded  my  mind  whilst 
in  his  room,  I  had  vocally  to  supplicate  the  Father  of  mer- 
cies on  his  behalf,  that  He  would  be  pleased  to  break  in 


1870.]  ANN     BRANSON.  301 

pieces  the  strong  heart,  and  bring  into  a  state  of  deep  con- 
trition, if  mercy  still  remained  in  store  for  him.  Carr  made 
some  sensible  remarks ;  said  he  had  made  a  full  confession 
of  his  crimes,  knowing  that  unless  he  did  so  he  could  not 
find  forgiveness  of  his  God.  But  whether  his  penitence  is 
sincere  or  not,  we  must  leave  with  Him  who  knoweth  the 
hearts  of  all. 

On  my  saying  to  him  that  had  He  attended  to  the  teach- 
ings of  the  holy  Spirit,  which  had  often  striven  with  him, 
showing  him  the  evil  and  the  good,  and  pleading  with  him 
to  choose  the  good  and  forsake  the  evil,  he  would  not  have 
committed  this  great  crime,  he  assented,  and  said  he  had 
felt  this  striving  with  him  to  which  I  had  alluded,  and  that 
had  he  attended  thereto  he  would  not  have  been  there,  or 
words  to  this  import. 

We  next  visited  Enoch  Thomas,  who  had  also  been  found 
guilty  of  murder  in  the  first  degree,  but  sentence  of  punish- 
ment has  not  yet  been  passed  upon  him.  He  appeared 
almost  frantic  with  grief  and  anguish,  but  whether  this  grief 
was  occasioned  by  a  due  sense  of,  and  penitence  for,  the  great 
crime  he  had  committed,  or  whether  through  fear  of  the 
punishment  that  might  be  inflicted,  the  Searcher  of  hearts 
knows.  The  spirit  of  supplication  was  given  me  on  behalf 
of  the  prisoner,  which  was  vocally  uttered.  So  also  with 
the  third,  who  had  been  sentenced  to  the  penitentiary. 

We  next  went  to  a  room  where  five  lads  were  confined ; 
the  youngest  about  fourteen  years  of  age.  He  had  shot  a 
man  intending  to  kill  him,  but  missed  his  aim,  yet  severely 
wounding  him.  These  boys,  when  we  first  entered  the  room, 
were  very  light  and  irreverent,  but  before  we  left,  the  one 
whose  countenance  was  at  first  most  defiant,  appeared  to 
change  very  much,  and  when  I  bid  him  farewell,  he  shook 
my  hand  for  some  time,  giving  evident  tokens  that  his  heart 


302  JOURNAL    OF  [1870. 

had  been  reached.  I  asked  him  pretty  soon  after  entering 
the  room,  if  he  did  not  sometimes  think  of  death,  and  what 
would  become  of  him  if  the  Lord  should  take  him  hence. 
He  replied,  that  he  did  not  think  much  about  it.  This  he 
said  in  a  very  light  manner.  I  told  him  he  had  known  bet- 
ter days ;  he  had  been  visited  in  mercy,  and  plead  with  by 
the  good  Spirit  to  forsake  the  evil  of  his  ways,  and  had  he 
yielded  obedience  thereto,  he  would  not  have  been  there. 
I  exhorted  him  to  repentance  and  amendment  of  life.  He 
appeared  to  me  to  be  the  ringleader  of  the  band  in  folly  and 
irreverence,  but  his  countenance  fell,  and  so  did  his  com- 
panions somewhat,  and  we  parted  with  them,  hoping  that 
the  exercise  and  concern  on  their  account  would  not  all  be 
lost. 

Before  going  into  the  prison,  we  had  some  conversation 
with  the  sheriff  relative  to  capital  punishment,  letting  him 
know  that  the  Society  of  Friends  did  not  believe  such  a  mode 
of  punishment  compatible  with  the  gospel  dispensation.  He 
said  he  would  be  glad  if  that  law  was  done  away,  but  whilst 
it  was  a  law,  somebody  must  execute  it.  We  brought  the 
matter  close  home  to  his  feelings,  and  desired  him  seriously 
to  consider  the  subject,  and  not  to  do  that  which  was  con- 
trary to  his  conscience  for  any  earthly  consideration.  I  told 
him  that  the  advice  of  Louis  IX,  King  of  France,  to  his 
daughter  Isabella,  Queen  of  Navarre,  was  on  this  wise — 
"  In  that  which  is  contrary  to  the  will  of  God,  you  give 
obedience  to  none."  I  said  it  would  be  far  better  to  resign 
the  office  than  wound  the  conscience,  &c.  He  was  respect- 
ful,  and  heard  us  patiently. 

8th. — Visited  the  Almshouse  ;  had  a  religious  opportunity 
with  a  considerable  number  of  the  inmates,  including  the 
Superintendent,  Matron  and  daughter,  to  the  relief  of  my 
mind,  and  the  satisfaction  of  the  visited  as  far  as  appeared. 


1870.]  ANN     BRANSON.  303 

Before  leaving,  the  attending  physician  came  in,  to  whom 
the  Lord  gave  me  some  counsel  to  impart,  which  he  received 
respectfully,  saying,  when  I  bid  him  farewell,  "I  fully  ap- 
preciate every  word  you  have  said." 

28th. — All  alone  ;  the  family  having  gone  to  attend  the 
sale  of  a  farm  belonging  to  the  estate  of  my  departed  brother 
Jacob.  This  is,  or  appears  to  me  to  be,  the  beginning  of  the 
scattering  of  this  family  and  the  property.  I  have  been 
trying  for  some  time  to  be  brought  into  a  state  of  quietude, 
relative  to  things  over  which  I  have  no  control,  and  the 
earnest  breathings  of  my  spirit  for  the  spiritual  welfare  of 
the  dear  children,  have  been  many  and  fervent,  amidst  the 
turnings  and  overturnings  of  things  around.  How  neces- 
sary to  take  heed  to  the  injunction — "In  your  patience  pos- 
sess ye  your  souls ; "  but  I  have  not  on  all  occasions  been 
watchful  enough  over  my  thoughts  and  words,  when  things 
have  given  me  uneasiness,  but  have  sometimes  given  way  to 
•express  what  had  better  have  been  left  unsaid,  which  has 
been  the  means  of  wounding  myself  and  injuring  the  good 
cause.  I  have  not  been  careful  enough  on  all  occasions  to 
mind  this  injunction  :  "  Let  your  adorning  be  that  of  a  meek 
and  quiet  spirit,  &c."  I  have  remembered  too,  how  the 
blessed  Saviour  demeaned  himself — "When  He  was  reviled, 
He  reviled  not  again ;  when  He  suffered,  He  threatened 
not."  How  different  from  this  have  I  sometimes  acted  ; 
have  given  way  to  reflect  on  others  when  I  should  have  kept 
quiet  and  calm.  Oh,  heavenly  Father!  take  hold  of  shield 
and  buckler  and  stand  up  for  my  help,  for  thou  alone  canst 
preserve  me  from  falling  ;  take  not  cognizance  of  my  evil 
to  punish  me  in  wrath,  but  remember  mercy  also. 

Fifth  Month  28th. — A  committee  having  been  appointed 
by  the  Yearly  Meeting  to  visit  Springfield  Quarterly  Meet- 
ing and  its  branches,  in  order  to  judge  of  the  propriety  of 


304  JOURNAL    OF  [1870. 

laying  down  or  continuing  that  Quarterly  Meeting,  I  being 
one  of  that  committee,  attended  that  meeting  on  the  llth 
instant.  There  was  a  difference  of  sentiment  in  the  commit- 
tee on  the  subject ;  some  being  for  attaching  the  members 
of  that  Quarter  to  Salem  Quarter,  and  some  for  adding  New 
Garden  Monthly  Meeting  (a  branch  of  Salem  Quarter)  to 
Springfield  Quarter,  and  so  keep  up  two  Quarterly  Meet- 
ings. The  latter  was  my  view  of  the  subject,  but  some  whose 
judgment  I  highly  esteemed  did  not  unite  with  it.  Notwith- 
standing the  difference  of  opinion,  all  appeared  willing  to 
weigh  the  matter,  and  wait  until  we  could  more  fully  unite 
as  to  what  would  be  best  to  do.  I  felt  rejoiced  that  none 
appeared  disposed  to  push  their  sentiments  upon  those  in 
opposition  to  them  beyond  the  bounds  of  propriety  and 
Christian  condescension.  Though  there  was  decided  oppo- 
sition in  judgment,  yet  no  harsh  words  or  bitter  feelings 
were  in  the  least  manifest.  May  the  great  Judge  rule  and 
overrule  in  the  matter,  and  cause  the  result  to  redound  to 
the  honor  of  Truth,  let  it  be  in  what  way  it  may,  has  been 
the  fervent  and  chief  desire  of  my  heart. 

Sixth  Month  14th. — This  is  a  day  of  great  trial,  wherein 
faith  and  patience  seem  to  be  very  closely  proven.  All  that 
I  seem  able  to  ask  for  is,  that  my  faith  may  not  wholly  failr 
and  that  I  may  not  become  a  castaway.  And  for  my  be- 
loved relatives  and  friends,  that  they  as  well  as  myself  may 
be  so  dealt  with  as  to  deepen  in  religious  experience. 

Oh,  the  lukewarmness  and  indifferency  that  prevails  with 
regard  to  our  soul's  best  interest.  It  seems  to  me  that  judg- 
ments, the  judgments  of  the  Lord,  will  not  slumber  much 
longer.  But  if  some  who  have  been  remarkably  visited, 
warned  and  invited  to  come  taste  and  see  that  the  Lord  is 
good,  do  not  yield  obedience,  they  will  have  to  taste  of  that 
which  will  be  very  bitter  and  hard  for  flesh  and  spirit  to 


1870.]  ANN    BRANSON.  305 

endure.  My  soul  is  often  plunged  into  deep  mourning, 
whilst  it  seems  most  proper  and  profitable  to  wear  the  sack- 
cloth inward ;  yet  I  could  cry  aloud  with  anguish  and  sor- 
row of  heart,  for  our  undone  and  sunken  condition  as  a  peo- 
ple in  general ;  at  least  it  appears  thus  to  me.  Lord !  hasten 
the  day  when,  through  the  washing  of  regeneration  and  re- 
newing of  the  Holy  Ghost,  we  may  as  a  religious  Society 
and  as  individual  members  experience  more  of  the  incomes 
of  thy  Divine  presence  in  our  religious  meetings,  as  well  as 
on  other  occasions. 

27th. — What  shall  I  say?  The  Lord  hath  permitted  dis- 
tress to  come  upon  me  like  a  flood,  on  account  of  the  evil 
doings  of  those  for  whom  I  have  prayed  often  ;  yes,  mourned 
and  wept  for  them  for  years  past.  Is  all  over?  Has  mercy 
failed  towards  them  because  of  their  long  and  wilful  rebel- 
lion against  the  light,  grace  and  Truth,  with  which  they 
have  been  visited  ?  Oh,  my  soul,  wait  thou  upon  God,  that 
thou  be  not  swallowed  up  of  overmuch  sorrow.  My  hands 
hang  down,  and  my  knees  smite  together  with  weakness  and 
distress.  Lord  help  me,  I  beseech  thee,  and  cause  thy  mercy, 
mingled  with  judgments,  to  awaken  the  transgressors,  that 
so  thy  name  may  yet  be  praised  by  them. 

Seventh  Month  8th. — I  feel  the  necessity  of  letting  my 
words  be  few  and  savory.  Oh  Lord !  enable  me  to  watch 
and  pray,  that  I  may  not  enter  into  temptation.  I  have 
been  engaged  for  a  few  days  past  in  transcribing  an  account 
prepared  by  my  beloved  cousin,  Miriam  Ellis,  concerning 
her  worthy  mother,  Abigail  Branson,  both  the  mother  and 
daughter  having  been  worthy  ministers,  belonging  to  Flush- 
ing Monthly  and  Particular  Meetings.  Oh,  that  others 
may  be  raised  up  in  our  little  meeting  worthy  to  h'll  their 
places. 

23rd. — The  account  above  referred  to  was  read  in  our 


306  JOURNAL    OF  [1870. 

last  Monthly  Meeting.  I  trust  it  will  prove  of  some  advan- 
tage to  young  and  old.  Previous  to  our  Monthly  Meeting 
I  was  from  home  about  a  week,  during  which  I  attended 
Short  Creek  Monthly  Meeting.  My  communication  in  the 
forepart  of  the  meeting  was  on  the  subject  of  sleeping.  I 
alluded  to  this  practice  as  being  a  weakness  which  might  be 
and  would  be  overcome  were  we  daily  concerned  for  the 
welfare  and  salvation  of  our  immortal  souls,  and  when  I 
called  it  a  weakness  I  felt  a  stop,  and  the  language  ran 
through  my  mind — Is  it  not  a  wicked  thing  also  to  give  up 
to  go  to  sleep  when  we  come  to  meeting  to  worship  Almighty 
God  ?  But  I  felt  that  some  might  think  it  too  strong  lan- 
guage to  use  in  reference  to  this  practice,  to  call  it  wicked- 
ness. I  hesitated,  but  found  I  could  not  go  on  without  thus 
expressing  it — "  What  if  I  shall  call  it  wickedness,  as  well 
as  weakness,"  or  words  to  this  import.  I  felt  that  some  were 
hurt,  but  I  trust  that  the  oil  and  the  wine  were  not. 

Eighth  Month  23rd.— What  shall  I  write?  The  call  this 
morning  seemed  to  be  to  pen  a  few  lines  in  this  little  book, 
but  nothing  presented  to  write.  On  opening  it  I  found  just 
one  month  had  passed  since  I  made  any  memorandum  of 
my  thoughts,  words  or  actions  in  this  way.  Oh  time,  time, 
how  precious ;  how  exceedingly  precious  thou  feels  to  me ; 
and  yet  I  seem  altogether  unable  .to  employ  thee,  or  appre- 
ciate thee  aright.  I  feel  so  benumbed,  so  stupefied  in  regard 
to  the  best  things  compared  with  that  which  my  soul  desires 
to  feel,  that  I  fear  I  am  farther  and  farther  from  the  king- 
dom. Whilst  writing  this  I  am  forcibly  reminded  of  the 
expressions  of  a  travelling  minister  to  my  dear  mother,  a 
few  days  before  the  death  of  the  latter. 

This  female  minister  from  England,  being  an  entire  stran- 
ger in  our  parts,  after  attending  our  Monthly  Meeting  visited 
my  father's  family ;  and  in  the  religious  opportunity  she  had 


1870.]  ANN     BRANSON.  307 

with  us,  thus  addressed  my  beloved  mother :  "  Thou  art  not 
far  from  the  kingdom  of  heaven,  though  the  thought  of  thine 
heart  is,  that  thou  art  farther  and  farther  from  it."  My 
mother  was  then  in  usual  health,  but  on  the  30th  of  that 
month  she  died  suddenly,  greatly  to  our  surprise  and  grief; 
but  not  a  shadow  of  doubt  remained  that  she  was  safely 
landed. 

It  is  nearly  thirty-six  years  since  that  beloved  mother 
died,  and  still  this  frail  tenement  of  clay,  then  apparently 
near  the  grave,  still  lingers  here  under  infirmities.  Lord, 
be  graciously  pleased  to  prepare  me  for  a  sudden  exit,  or 
otherwise,  for  my  latter  end  by  a  more  lingering  illness,  as 
it  may  seem  good  to  thee. 

24th. — Visited  several  invalids  in  the  village  of  Flushing, 
some  of  whom  I  had  been  to  see  before.  One  who  appears 
to  be  near  the  grave,  and  yet  awful  to  consider,  seems  in  no 
way  prepared  for  the  change.  His  countenance  bespoke  in 
some  degree  the  situation  of  his  mind.  A  settled  gloom  ap- 
peared in  his  looks,  and  what  if  I  say  (for  so  it  seemed  to 
me),  that  his  very  looks  indicated  a  settled  determination 
to  ward  off  and  reject  everything  like  religious  impressions 
or  religious  counsel.  Oh,  how  my  heart  has  yearned  for 
this  individual,  but  his  case,  both  as  respects  body  and  soul, 
seems  to  be  almost  if  not  quite,  a  hopeless  one. 

25th. — To-day,  our  Monthly  Meeting  was  held  at  Guern- 
sey. We  went  and  returned  the  same  day.  After  the  busi- 
ness of  the  meeting  was  through,  I  requested  the  shutters 
opened,  which  was  done.  I  endeavored  to  relieve  my  mind 
in  regard  to  Friends  attending  fairs,  and  felt  that  I  must 
discourage  the  practice,  fully  believing  there  is  more  harm 
than  good  resulting  from  them.  ^Several  Friends  united 
with  what  I  had  to  say,  and  I  felt  relieved  of  a  burden  after 
discharging  my  duty  as  faithfully  as  I  could.  The  Lord 


308  JOURNAL    OF  [1870. 

only  knows  the  exercise  of  my  spirit  for  niy  own  safety  and 
preservation  and  for  that  of  others. 

Tenth  Month  13th. — The  individual  before  mentioned 
was  buried  some  weeks  ago.  He  appeared  to  die  as  he  had 
determined  to  live,  without  the  fear  of  God  before  his  face ; 
cursing  and  swearing  a  short  time  before  his  death.  Oh, 
awful  situation.  What  language  can  set  forth  the  dreadful 
condition  hereafter  awaiting  such  an  one.  On  being  told 
by  a  physician  that  he  could  not  live,  and  exhorted  him  to 
set  his  accounts  in  order,  he  used  profane  language,  calling 
the  physician  a  fool,  &c. 

Oh,  vain  man,  how  just  is  the  language  of  the  prophet, 
wrhen  applied  to  the  unregenerate  and  hardened  condition 
of  fallen  man — 'The  heart  is  deceitful  above  all  things,  and 
desperately  wicked;  who  can  know  it?"  What  tender  visi- 
tations of  mercy  are  extended  towards  us.  How  kindly  and 
graciously  we  are  dealt  with.  How  we  are  followed  from 
day  to  day,  and  from  year  to  year,  with  this  inviting  lan- 
guage— "Return  ye  backsliding  children,  and  I  will  heal 
your  backslidings.  Turn  ye,  turn  ye,  why  will  ye  die,  &c. 
But  if  we  will  turn  our  backs  and  harden  our  hearts  against 
such  calls  of  mercy,  our  houses  will  be  left  desolate,  for  the 
Lord  hath  declared  that  his  spirit  shall  not  always  strive  with 
man,  because  He  also  is  flesh."  Though  we  are  encompassed 
with  weakness,  having  no  power  of  ourselves  to  do  any  good 
thing,  yet  He  who  calleth  us  to  glory  and  to  virtue  hath  all 
power  and  wisdom,  and  such  as  close  in  with  the  light  of 
Christ  and  follow  it,  these  become  strong  in  the  Lord  and 
in  the  power  of  his  might,  and  enabled  through  this  holy 
help  to  resist  the  temptations  of  the  devil  in  all  his  various 
transformations ;  and  are  made  more  than  conquerors  over 
their  spiritual  foes  through  Him  that  loved  them. 

21st. — My  spirit  is  very  sad  and  sorrowful.     Be  pleased, 


1870.]  ANN     BRANSON.  309 

O  Lord,  to  interpose  thine  arm  of  power  for  my  deliverance 
from  temptation.  Our  late  Yearly  Meeting  afforded  at  times, 
comfortable  and  refreshing  evidence  that  He  who  gathered 
us  to  be  a  people,  had  not  forsaken  us,  blessed  be  his  holy 
name.  In  the  public  meeting  on  Fourth-day,  I  felt  it  re- 
quired of  me  to  stand  up  and  utter  this  language  of  the 
prophet  Isaiah :  "  Since  the  beginning  of  the  world  men 
have  not  heard,  nor  perceived  by  the  ear,  neither  hath  the 
eye  seen,  O  God,  besides  thee,  what  He  hath  prepared  for 
him  that  waiteth  for  Him." 

After  quoting  this,  I  said,  that  the  same  inspired  penman 
tells  us  in  what  way  he  waited  for  the  Lord — "  In  the  way 
of  thy  judgments,  O  Lord,  have  we  waited  for  thee;  the 
desire  of  our  soul  is  to  thy  name,  and  the  remembrance  of 
thee.  We  also  must  wait  upon  the  Lord  in  the  way  of  his 
judgments,  knowing  the  temple  of  our  hearts  cleansed  and 
purified  by  the  spirit  of  judgment  and  the  spirit  of  burning, 
if  we  would  be  partakers  of  that  joy  which  is  unspeakable 
and  full  of  glory.  The  path  to  the  kingdom  of  heaven  is 
not  a  flowery  path,  it  is  by  the  way  of  the  cross ;  it  is  through 
deep  tribulations,  through  fiery  baptisms,  that  we  come  to 
inherit  the  crown  of  life  everlasting.  Jesus  Christ  suffered 
not  the  ignominious  and  painful  death  of  the  cross  to  save  us 
in  our  sins,  but  from  our  sins. 

I  had  considerable  to  say  in  this  meeting,  but  was  not 
very  lengthy,  the  subject  and  substance  being  briefly  given 
in  the  above ;  after  which  I  felt  peaceful  and  easy.  It  is 
seldom  I  have  felt  it  required  of  me  to  open  my  mouth  in 
those  large  public  meetings  during  the  time  of  our  annual 
gatherings,  being  rather  baptized  in  spirit  for  the  arising  of 
the  life-giving  power  and  presence  of  Israel's  unslumbering 
Shepherd.  Under  this  exercise,  I  have  often  been  led,  fer- 
vently, though  silently  to  petition  the  Father  of  mercies  to 


310  JOURNAL    OF  [1870. 

bring  us  into  that  situation,  both  ministers  and  others  amongst 
us,  in  which  we  might  experience  what  true  and  living  silence 
is,  being  afraid  to  open  our  mouths  (such  as  are  called  to 
the  work  of  the  ministry)  without  the  fresh  anointing  of  the 
holy  One  for  the  service.  As  this  is  the  living  and  fervent 
engagement  of  ministers,  they  will  not  be  restless  in,  or 
ashamed  of  silent  meetings ;  but  being  willing  to  be  in  the 
eyes  of  the  worldly-wise  as  fools  for  Christ's  sake,  they  will 
lift  up  the  standard  towards  Zion,  promoting  the  Redeemer's  , 
kingdom  amongst  men,  setting  an  example  of  true  and  living 
worship,  that  worship  which  is  in  the  Spirit  and  in  the  Truth, 
for  the  Father  seeketh  such  to  worship  Him.  I  thought  we 
were  favored  at  times  in  our  late  annual  assembly  to  feel 
something  of  that  true  and  living  silence  that  is  not  at  our 
command,  in  and  under  which,  my  heart  did  praise  the  Lord, 
and  beg  that  He  would  still  everything  rising  up,  that  would 
tend  to  mar,  or  disturb  this  holy  solemnity  that  He  was 
pleased  to  spread  over  us.  Oh  how  my  heart  yearns  for  an 
increase  of  that  pure  and  vital  religion  which  characterized 
Friends  in  the  rise  of  the  Society.  In  the  last  sitting  of 
the  Select  Meeting  a  singular  testimony  was  given  me  to 
deliver  which  I  deferred  a  little  too  long,  but  was  enabled 
to  relieve  my  mind,  and  felt  peaceful  and  easy  afterwards. 
Eleventh  Month  5th. — My  God !  my  God !  be  pleased  to 
enable  me  to  bear  with  Christian  patience  and  forbearance 
towards  others  the  trials  under  which  I  am  now  pressed 
down,  on  account  of  the  conduct  of  those,  for  whose  welfare 
my  heart  greatly  yearns.  Oh,  thou  who  hast  been  merciful  to 
my  soul  for  years  past — yes,  through  my  whole  life — continue, 
I  beseech  thee,  to  be  near  in  this  time  of  great  need,  when 
the  mountains  press  sore  upon  me,  and  be  with  and  round 
about  those  who  take  not  counsel  of  thee,  but  follow  their 
own  understanding  in  regard  to  important  matters,  and  for- 


1871.]  ANN     BRANSON.  311 

sake  them  not,  but  follow  them  in  mercy  that  they  may  not 
become  cast  off.  Dearest  Father,  thou  who  only  knowest 
the  distress  of  my  spirit  and  heart,  bore  me  up  in  days  that 
are  past  under  similar  trials,  and  hast  let  me  see  that  that 
which  then  weighed  me  down,  and  pressed  me  even  out  of 
measure,  so  that  I  almost  despaired  of  life,  came  to  be  a 
burdensome  stone  to  those  who  caused  my  distress,  and  when 
the  dark  valley  of  the  shadow  of  death  was  to  be  passed 
through,  the  world  and  all  that  was  therein  could  afford 
them  no  ray  of  comfort,  and  had  it  not  been  through  thy 
adorable  mercy  extended  in  that  critical,  awful  hour,  they 
had  died  without  hope.  O  God !  sanctify  through  thy  adora- 
ble wisdom  and  goodness  our  hearts ;  body,  soul  and  spirit 
are  thine,  and  into  thy  hands  they  are  committed. 

First  Month  Ninth,  1871. — Another  year  has  passed  away 
and  I  still  an  inhabitant  of  this  state  of  existence.  What 
shall  I  render  to  the  Lord  for  all  his  benefits  ?  I  have  been 
spending  five  weeks  at  Concord  with  my  nephew  and  niece, 
Israel  and  Rebecca  Steer,  and  their  interesting  family. 
Whilst  there  I  was  often  reminded  of  the  Apostle's  advice 
— "Whether  ye  eat  or  drink,  or  whatever  ye  do,  do  all  to 
the  glory  of  God."  I  strove  to  make  this  my  aim  and  object 
in  this  visit,  though  it  was  not  professedly  a  religious  one ; 
yet  some  opportunities  for  religious  communication  were  af- 
forded, in  which  the  word  of  counsel,  warning  and  encour- 
agement were  administered  to  those  to  whom  it  seemed  my 
place  to  give  it. 

Whilst  in  that  neighborhood,  I  felt  a  concern  to  see  an 
individual,  who  was  almost  an  entire  stranger  to  me ;  yet  a 
strong  desire  for  his  everlasting  welfare  pressed  upon  me ; 
and  I  was  favored  earnestly  to  petition  the  Father  of  mer- 
cies, to  make  a  way  for  my  relief,  if  anything  was  required 
of  me  towards  this  individual  in  the  way  of  religious  com- 


312  JOURNAL    OF  [1871. 

munication.  I  felt  no  liberty  to  mention  my  concern  to  any 
one.  The  time  was  drawing  near  when  I  expected  to  return 
home,  and  the  concern  to  see  this  individual  still  pressed 
upon  me ;  when  to  my  surprise  he  came  to  my  nephew's  and 
dined  with  us.  On  sitting  down  at  the  table,  a  weighty  con- 
cern took  hold  of  my  mind  that  I  might  be  faithful  to  mani- 
fested duty,  accompanied  with  a  passage  of  Scripture  forcibly 
and  livingly  presented.  I  could  eat  but  little,  but  before  we 
arose  from  the  table,  I  expressed  what  appeared  given  me 
to  say,  without  any  particular  allusion  to  the  stranger  present, 
yet  felt  measurably  relieved  of  the  burden,  and  rejoiced  that 
this  opportunity  was  afforded ;  and  could  but  marvel  at  the 
wisdom,  and  wonder-working  power  of  the  Almighty,  who 
made  a  way  for  me  when  there  appeared  no  way.  Blessed 
be  his  holy  name  forever. 

At  one  place  where  I  visited  whilst  at  Concord,  near  the 
time  for  leaving,  a  passage  of  Scripture  forcibly  and  weightily 
presented  to  my  mind,  with  an  intimation  to  revive  it  in  the 
presence  of  the  family  and  friends  with  me.  I  hesitated, 
and  reasoned,  fearing  it  might  look  like  implicating  those 
present  in  a  way  and  manner  that  did  not  fit  them.  But  I 
found  that  if  I  left  the  house  with  a  peaceful  mind,  I  must 
be  faithful  to  apprehended  duty.  I  therefore  expressed  with 
fear  and  trembling  what  was  before  me,  and  felt  peaceful 
and  easy  afterwards,  without  any  anxiety  to  know  why  I 
was  thus  led ;  but  was  afterwards  informed  that  the  woman 
Friend  who  belonged  to  the  house,  and  who  was  affected  to 
tears  by  what  was  said,  desired  I  would  not  feel  uneasy  be- 
cause of  my  communication,  that  there  was  cause  for  it. 

Third  Month  9th. — To-day  attended  the  funeral  of  our 
beloved  Friend,  Joseph  Hobson,  who  peacefully  departed 
this  life  on  the  7th.  I  several  times  visited  him  during  his 
illness,  and  found  him  mostly  engaged  in  earnest  wrestling 


1871.]  ANN     BRANSON.  313 

for  the  blessing  of  sanctification,  and  a  preparation  for  the 
solemn  close.  Great  were  his  conflicts  of  spirit  whilst  the 
enemy  was  assiduously  endeavoring  to  cast  him  down  below 
hope ;  but  He  who  putteth  to  flight  the  armies  of  the  aliens, 
and  who  ariseth  for  the  oppression  of  the  poor,  and  the 
sighing  of  the  needy,  was  pleased  to  calm  every  troubled 
emotion,  speaking  peace  to  the  weary  and  heavy  laden  soul. 
Oh  that  men  would  praise  the  Lord  for  his  goodness,  and 
for  his  wonderful  works  to  the  children  of  men.  This  dear 
Friend  had  long  been  an  elder  in  our  meeting,  faithfully 
sounding  the  alarm  when  the  enemy  made  his  approaches, 
by  introducing  unsound  doctrines  and  practices  in  the  So- 
ciety ;  and  great  were  his  exercises  and  grief  on  account  of 
false  brethren  on  the  right  hand  and  on  the  left ;  but  the 
Lord  hath  taken  him  to  everlasting  rest,  where  the  wicked 
cease  from  troubling,  and  the  weary  are  at  rest.  My  soul 
has  been  deeply  instructed,  and  impressed,  whilst  sitting  in 
the  room,  and  by  the  bedside  of  this  dear  Friend  in  his  last 
illness.  It  plainly  appeared  to  me  that  his  deep  exercises, 
baptisms  and  temptations  were  permitted  and  dispensed,  not 
only  for  his  good  and  enlargement  a'nd  purification  ;  but 
more  especially  to  drive  us  home,  who  were  surrounding 
him — that  is,  to  look  at  our  own  spiritual  condition,  and 
search  narrowly  for  that  which  hinders  our  acceptance  with 
the  beloved  of  souls.  O  how  these  words  came  home  to  my 
heart  when  he  said  to  me,  "  I  fear  I  am  not  deep  enough." 
It  seemed  to  me  that  this  very  fear  that  impressed  his  mind 
on  his  own  account,  was  surely  for  others,  more  than  for 
himself.  My  spirit  was  then  poured  forth  in  vocal  supplica- 
tion, that  the  Lord  would  deepen  us  in  the  root  of  life,  and 
raise  up  standard-bearers  in  our  poor  backsliding  Society ; 
to  take  the  places  of  those  who  had  been  and  were  being 
removed  from  amongst  us.  Several  times  during  the  illness 
21 


314  JOURNAL  .OF  [1871. 

of  this  dear  Friend,  I  felt  constrained  to  appear  in  vocal 
supplication  and  thanksgiving  by  his  bedside;  which  seemed 
rather  remarkable  to  me,  as  I  have  long  been  shut  up  as  to 
any  vocal  service  in  our  meetings  for  worship.  May  I  never 
presume  to  strive  for  an  opening,  when  the  Lord  hath  shut, 
or  to  shut,  when  He  opens  the  spring  of  religious  communi- 
cation. 

Fourth  Month  3rd. — Had  considerable  conversation  on 
religious  subjects  with  a  member  of  the  Methodist  Society, 
touching  ministry,  worship  and  prayer.  He  plead  the  pro- 
priety of  ministers  receiving  some  compensation  for  their 
labors  in  the  Church ;  but  was  opposed  to  great  salaries, 
such  as  some  demand  and  receive.  I  told  him,  the  little  or 
the  much  received  in  the  way  of  pay  for  preaching,  involved 
the  same  principle,  and  was  contrary  to  the  gospel  of  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who  said  to  his  disciples — "  Freely  ye 
have  received,  freely  give ; "  and  instanced  the  example  of 
the  Apostle  Paul,  who  labored  for  his  own  support,  and  that 
of  others. 

I  told  him,  it  was  the  prerogative  of  the  Head  of  the 
Church,  and  belonged  not  to  man,  to  choose  and  qualify  for 
the  work  of  the  ministry,  and  no  one  has  a  right  to  choose 
or  refuse  for  himself.  The  gospel  ministry  is  free,  and  is 
exercised  in  demonstration  of  the  spirit  and  of  power.  The 
apostle  said,  "  That  the  gospel  which  was  preached  of  me, 
is  not  after  man.  For  I  neither  received  of  man,  neither 
was  I  taught  it,  but  by  the  revelation  of  Jesus  Christ."  We 
had  some  plain  and  interesting  conversation,  which  I  trust 
did  not  tend  to  the  dishonor  of  Truth. 

20th. — To-day,  had  a  short  communication  in  our  Monthly 
Meeting,  both  before  and  after  the  shutters  were  closed.  In 
the  forepart  of  the  meeting,  after  my  cousin  A.  B.  had  spo- 
ken, I  arose  and  said — "  It  is  not  for  the  dead  that  have  died 


1871.]  ANN    BRANSON.  315 

in  the  Lord  that  I  mourn ;  it  is  not  for  the  living  that  are 
preparing  for  a  happy  and  glorious  immortality  that  I  grieve; 
but  it  is  for  those  whose  spiritual  buildings  are  going  up  on 
a  sandy  foundation,  which  the  storm  beating  vehemently 
against,  must  bring  down.  It  is  for  these,  and  those  who 
are  in  their  false  resting-places,  that  my  spirit  deeply  la- 
ments before  the  Lord  God  of  Hosts." 

After  a  short  exhortation  to  all  classes  to  examine  their 
spiritual  accounts,  not  forgetting  or  leaving  myself  out  of  the 
number,  I  closed,  and  felt  in  hopes  that  I  had  not  hurt  the 
good  cause.  Month  after  month  my  mouth  has  been  closed 
in  our  Meetings  for  Worship,  and  deep  have  been  the  tra- 
vail and  exercise  of  my  spirit  on  my  own  account,  and  that 
of  my  brethren  and  sisters  in  religious  profession  with  my- 
self. Oh,  that  I  may  be  preserved  by  the  power  of  God 
from  taking  my  flight  in  this  wintry  season  is,  and  has  been, 
the  feeble  and  earnest  petition  of  my  soul. 

23rd. — Attended  Guernsey  Meeting,  where  my  mouth  was 
opened  in  a  little  testimony  for  the  Truth.  I  was  reminded, 
and  to  speak  of  it,  that  the  apostles  of  our  Lord  and  Saviour 
Jesus  Christ  rejoiced  that  they  were  counted  worthy  to  suffer 
for  his  blessed  name's  sake,  who  died  for  us — who  bore  the 
scoffing,  scourging,  spitting  upon,  and  nailing  to  the  cross, 
for  poor  fallen,  finite  and  rebellious  man  ;  and  rose  again  to 
save  us,  not  in  our  sins,  but  from  our  sins.  Are  we  willing 
to  suffer,  and  to  walk  in  the  way  pointed  out  by  this  blessed 
Saviour  ?  Are  we  concerned,  young  and  old,  to  follow  Him 
in  the  way  of  his  requirings?  Obedience  must  be  yielded 
thereto,  if  we  would  be  owned  and  received  of  Him  who  is 
Lord  of  lords  and  King  of  kings. 

I  have  trodden  the  slippery  paths  of  youth  ;  I  have  been 
surrounded  with  many  temptations,  incident  to  that  period 
of  life,  possessed  of  a  light,  airy  and  proud  heart  naturally, 


316  JOURNAL    OF  [1871. 

I  deeply  feel  for  and  sympathize  with  the  young ;  but  I  can 
offer  them  no  excuse  for  continuing  in  that  state  and  con- 
dition in  which,  if  called  from  works  to  rewards,  they  would 
be  unprepared  to  hear  the  welcome  language — "Enter  thou 
into  the  joy  of  thy  Lord." 

Sixth  Month  19th. — Attended  the  funeral  of  my  beloved 
cousin,  Joseph  Wilson,  who  departed  this  life  in  great  tran- 
quillity and  peace  of  mind,  on  the  17th  inst.,  about  half-past 
six  o'clock  A.  M..  His  bodily  sufferings  were  very  great  for 
a  few  days  before  his  death,  and  for  several  hours  before  the 
close  they  were  agonizing.  But  not  a  complaint  escaped 
his  lips,  and  his  countenance  was  calm  and  serene.  "  Blessed 
are  the  dead  which  die  in  the  Lord." 

This  dear  Friend  had  long  filled  the  station  of  overseer 
and  elder  in  our  Monthly  Meeting,  and  we  feel  that  we  have 
lost  a  father  in  the  Church.  His  example  and  precept  had 
long  been  such  as  to  render  him  a  bright  and  shining  light 
to  those  acquainted  with  him  ;  and  the  following  language 
quoted  at  his  grave-side  by  my  cousin,  Asa  Branson,  was  no 
doubt  entirely  applicable  to  his  situation,  and  doubtless  was 
responded  to  in  the  heart  of  almost  every  one  present  who 
knew  him:  "Mark  the  perfect  man  and  behold  the  upright, 
for  the  end  of  that  man  is  peace." 

Seventh  Month  17th. — The  exercises  of  my  spirit  are  very 
great  on  account  of  the  lukewarmness  and  indifference  which 
prevails  amongst  us  as  a  people,  and  individually  in  my  own 
neighborhood  and  meeting,  as  well  as  other  places.  Oh, 
what  will  be  the  consequence?  Parents  and  children  joined 
together  in  lowering  the  precious  standard  of  Truth.  The 
former  indulging  the  latter  in  great  departures  from  that 
simplicity  in  dress,  &c.,  which  the  Truth  leads  into  ;  and  any 
remarks  now  made  specially  against  our  members,  young 
Friends  joining  in  with  the  fashions  of  the  day,  and  recorn- 


1871.]  ANN     BRANSON.  317 

mending  the  plain  dress,  &c.,  appears  to  be  treated  by  some 
plain  parents,  with  feelings  of  resentment ;  and  by  the  chil- 
dren of  such  parents,  with  utter  contempt. 

My  soul  has  been  and  is  bowed  down  under  an  inexpres- 
sible weight,  whilst  I  behold  the  gradual  departure  from  the 
testimonies  which  cost  our  forefathers  all  that  was  near  and 
dear  to  them  in  this  world  ;  not  counting  their  life  dear  unto 
themselves,  that  they  might  finish  their  course  with  joy. 
Whilst  under  this  weight  of  exercise,  the  consideration  and 
query  often  comes  up  before  me  on  this  wise :  How  or  what 
shall  I  do  to  be  clear,  and  to  promote  the  Redeemer's  king- 
dom amongst  men,  according  to  the  will  of  my  Heavenly 
Father?  There  appears  but  little  opening  to  labor  in  the 
ministry,  or  in  counsel  and  exhortation  in  families,  or  in 
meetings.  Keep  me,  oh  Lord,  in  my  right  sphere  !  prevent 
my  lips  from  uttering  unsavory  and  uncalled  for  expressions, 
in  this  day  of  great  trial ;  plunge  me  in  the  river  of  judg- 
ment, take  away  all  the  leprous  spots  from  me,  continue  thy 
judgments,  until  a  clean  heart  is  created  in  me,  and  a  right 
spirit  renewed,  then  will  I  teach  transgressors  thy  law,  and 
sinners  shall  be  converted  unto  thee. 

Tenth  Month  31st. — Oh  Lord,  my  God !  have  mercy  on 
me,  for  my  heart  is  sore  troubled,  thou  only  knowest  how  it 
is  with  me,  and  into  thy  hands  I  desire  to  be  able  to  commit 
the  keeping  of  my  soul,  as  unto  a  faithful  Creator,  who  will 
do  all  things  well.  Oh,  cast  not  off,  I  pray  thee,  my  prodi- 
gal brother;  but  turn  thine  hand  upon  him,  I  humbly  pray 
thee,  oh  thou  almighty  and  holy  One,  and  bring  him  back, 
if  consistent  with  thy  holy  will,  into  a  state  of  true  repent- 
ance. Oh,  have  mercy  upon  my  poor  wandering  nephew, 
for  whom  my  soul  has  been  poured  out  by  day  and  by  night 
before  thee.  Amen,  and  amen. 


318  JOURNAL     OF  [1872. 


CHAPTER  XI. 

DEATH  OF  HANNAH  MITCHELL,  AND  HOPEFUL  REMARKS — DEATH  OF  RUTH 
CONROW — DEATH  OF  WILLIAM  BAILEY,  AND  REMARKS  THEREON — A  RELIG- 
IOUS VISIT  TO  PENNSVILLE  AND  SHORT  CREEK  QUARTERS,  EXTENDING 
TO  THEIR  BRANCHES  AND  FAMILIES — A  RELIGIOUS  VISIT  TO  SALEM  QUAR- 
,  TER — ITS  BRANCHES  AND  SOME  FAMILIES — DEATH  OF  JOSEPH  WALKER 
— DEATH  OF  ISAAC  MITCHELL — DEATH  OF  HER  COUSIN,  JOSEPH  BRANSON, 
AND  REMARKS  CONCERNING  HIM — EXERCISES  UNDER  A  SENSE  OF  THE 
SITUATION  OF  HER  OWN  YEARLY  MEETING. 

Second  Month  29th,  1872.— On  the  25th  of  last  month, 
our  beloved  friend,  Hannah  Mitchell,  departed  this  life,  in 
the  thirty-fourth  year  of  her  age. 

She  was  possessed  of  talents  rather  above  ordinary,  and 
for  several  years  previous  to  her  death,  appeared  to  be  bend- 
ing her  neck  to  the  yoke  of  Christ;  and  thus  preparing  for 
usefulness  in  the  Church.  Her  elder  brethren  and  sisters 
watched  the  progress  of  her  religious  concern,  with  feelings 
of  hopeful  expectation,  that  she  might  become,  if  not  a  moth- 
er in  our  Israel,  a  helper  and  companion  of  those  who  prefer 
the  welfare  of  Jerusalem  above  their  chief  joy. 

When  lo !  He  that  maketh  the  clouds  his  chariot,  and 
treadeth  upon  the  high  places  of  the  earth,  saw  meet  to  cut 
the  work  short  in  righteousness,  and  disappoint  all  our  hopes 
as  relates  to  the  further  labors  of  this  dear  Friend  in  the 
Church  militant.  Great  were  her  exercises  during  her  ill- 
ness, not  only  on  her  own  account,  but  that  of  others  also. 
Fervently  supplicating  the  Father  of  mercies  on  behalf  of 
every  individual  belonging  to  our  little  meeting,  that  there 
might  be  a  deepening  in  the  root  of  life  amongst  all  classes, 
and  that  the  anointed  ministers  might  eye  the  Captain  of 
salvation  in  all  their  movements.  That  they  might  be  wil- 
ling to  go  deep  into  the  river  of  judgment,  to  be  able  to 
bring  up  stones  of  memorial  from  thence,  and  that  their  min- 


1872.]  ANN     BRANSON..  319 

istry  might  be  baptizing,  &c.  And  also  supplicated  that 
other  gospel  ministers  might  be  raised  up  amongst  us,  that 
the  feet  of  the  gospel  messengers  might  be  beautiful  on  the 
mountains  of  the  Lord's  holiness.  In  her  supplication  in 
reference  to  the  ministry,  and  on  behalf  of  the  ministers, 
she  said — "  The  manna  of  yesterday  will  not  suffice  for  to- 
day, it  will  stink ;  there  must  be  a  renewed  supply." 

Oh  Lord,  my  God !  bless  the  exercises  of  this  dear  Friend 
to  my  soul.  Deal  with  me  in  such  a  way  as  will  deepen  me 
in  the  root  of  life.  Bless  her  exercises  to  others,  raise  up 
and  qualify  those  who  may  be  able  to  take  the  places  of  the 
standard-bearers  whom  thou  art  removing  from  our  midst, 
that  there  may  be  in  this  place  according  to  the  supplication 
of  our  dear  departed  Friend — "A  little  army  of  standard- 
bearers  raised  up,  for  the  support  of  those  precious  princi- 
ples and  testimonies  given  us  as  a  people  to  bear."  Amen, 
and  amen. 

Third  Month  10th. — The  exercises  of  my  mind  and  the 
burden  resting  upon  it  are  at  times  great.  It  seems  to  me, 
that  judgments  are  hovering  over  us.  Oh,  that  they  maybe 
mingled  with  mercy. 

Last  week,  attended  the  funeral  of  W.  S.,  a  young  man 
who  died  at  our  Boarding  School.  My  mouth  was  opened 
in  testimony  at  the  house,  and  afterwards  at  the  school  meet- 
ing ;  a  little  evidence  given  that  I  am  not  forsaken  of  the 
Lord  ;  praises  belong  unto  Him  for  this  evidence,  for  surely 
He  would  not  require  me  thus  to  speak  to  others,  if  He  had 
<;ast  me  off  forever. 

20th. — Last  night,  our  friend  Ruth  Conrow,  a  member  of 
our  little  meeting,  died  very  suddenly  and  unexpectedly. 
Surely,  the  Lord  is  dealing  with  us  in  a  remarkable  manner, 
removing  from  our  midst  one  after  another  in  quick  succes- 
sion, giving  us  to  see  and  feel  that  our  life  is  indeed  a  vapor 


320  JOURNAL    OF  [1873. 

that  must  soon  pass  away.  Oh,  that  He  may  search  us,  try 
us,  and  deal  with  us,  that  we  may  turn  with  the  whole  heart 
unto  Him,  hath  been  and  still  is  the  desire  of  my  heart  for 
myself  and  others. 

Sixth  Month  15th.— This  day,  heard  of  the  death  of  Wil- 
liam Bailey,  which  took  place  yesterday  on  the  car  in  which 
he  was  travelling.  He  was  suddenly  cut  off  in  a  few  min- 
utes after  taking  his  seat.  Several  years  ago,  a  deep  and 
heart-felt  concern  came  upon  me  to  warn  this  man  of  the 
necessity  of  being  prepared  for  a  sudden  exit.  The  first 
time  it  came  before  me,  and  I  had  an  opportunity  of  deliver- 
ing the  message  to  him,  I  shrunk  from  the  duty  required, 
which  occasioned  much  sorrow  of  heart  on  my  part.  But 
again  the  command  was  given,  and  I  obeyed ;  going  to  his 
house,  and  delivering  the  message  as  faithfully  as  I  could. 
I  told  him  that  people  were  often  suddenly  killed  on  the 
cars,  but  did  not  prophesy  that  he  would  be,  only  felt  con- 
strained to  plead  with  him,  to  set  his  spiritual  accounts  in 
order. 

Oh,  how  my  heart  was  impressed,  and  exercised  on  his 
behalf;  his  wife  took  great  offence  at  what  I  said,  and  after- 
wards manifested  the  most  bitter  feeling  towards  me.  She 
too  was  suddenly  removed  from  works  to  rewards,  taking  a 
dose  of  chloroform.  She  fell  into  a  sleep  from  which  she 
never  awoke.  Thus  both  of  them,  who  were  disconcerted 
at  my  plain  and  impressive  warning  to  be  ready  for  the 
solemn  change,  were  suddenly  cut  off.  Oh,  may  I  be  in 
earnest  to  have  my  spiritual  accounts  in  readiness  when  the 
pale  messenger  is  sent. 

1873. — Having  the  unity  and  concurrence  of  my  Monthly 
and  Quarterly  Meeting  for  religious  service  within  the  limits 
of  Pennsville  and  Short  Creek  Quarters,  I  left  home  on  the 
16th  of  Eleventh  Month,  1873,  in  company  with  my  cousins- 


1874.]  ANN    BRANSON.  321 

Joseph  Branson  and  Abigail  Sears,  assistant  companions, 
and  arrived  at  Pennsville  in  time  to  attend  that  Quarterly 
Meeting,  held  on  the  20th  of  said  month. 

Through  much  bodily  infirmity  and  mental  exercise,  I 
visited  all  the  meetings  composing  that  Quarter,  and  had 
forty-six  family  opportunities,  and  returned  in  three  weeks. 
Having  a  hard  cough  and  being  otherwise  indisposed,  I  re- 
mained pretty  much  shut  up  through  the  winter,  except  at- 
tending meetings  at  home  as  they  came  in  course. 

1874.— About  the  first  of  the  Fourth  Month,  1874, 1  re- 
ceived an  injury  of  my  spine  which,  added  to  my  previous 
infirmities,  confined  me  to  the  house  and  bed  for  several 
weeks,  subjecting  me  to  much  bodily  suffering.  But  as  soon 
as  I  was  able  to  ride  out  and  attend  meetings,  I  felt  it  right 
to  engage  in  a  family  visit  in  the  neighborhood,  and  in  the 
town  of  Flushing.  A  concern  to  pay  a  religious  visit  to  the 
inhabitants  of  the  town  generally,  in  a  family  capacity,  had 
long  rested  with  me.  But  now  seeming  to  myself  altogether 
inadequate  to  the  task,  both  as  relates  to  strength  of  body 
and  mind,  the  impression  was  gently  but  forcibly  brought 
home  to  my  heart  on  this  wise :  "  Now  is  the  time,  arise  up 
and  enter  upon  this  visit ;  fear  not,  for  I  the  Lord  will  be 
unto  thee  strength  in  weakness,  and  a  present  helper  in  the 
needful  time — mouth  and  wisdom,  tongue  and  utterance." 
And  as  I  set  out  and  moved  along  from  day  to  day  in  the 
prosecution  of  this  visit,  I  found  the  promises  of  the  Lord 
wonderfully  verified. 

He  did,  indeed,  often  make  a  way  for  me  amongst  profes- 
sors and  profane,  where  for  a  time  there  appeared  to  be  no 
way  to  cast  off  my  burden.  He  stopped  the  mouths  of  gain- 
sayers,  and  enabled  me  to  deal  honestly  with  all  classes,  and 
to  my  great  surprise,  when  about  leaving  some  families  from 


322  JOURNAL    OF  [1874. 

whom  we  could  least  expect  such  a  salutation ;  we  were  thus 
accosted :  "  We  thank  you  for  this  visit." 

Many  times,  on  sitting  down  in  a  family,  I  felt  my  weak- 
ness to  be  so  great,  both  in  mind  and  body,  as  scarcely  to 
be  able  to  keep  my  seat,  or  to  maintain  that  patience  and 
composure  which  such  an  occasion  requires.  But  being  en- 
abled fervently  to  cry  unto  the  Lord  for  help  and  strength 
to  keep  in  my  right  place,  and  to  be  preserved  from  bring- 
ing a  reproach  upon  the  Truth,  He  hath  heard  my  cry  and 
raised  me  up  out  of  these  low  places,  making  me  to  forget 
all  my  weaknesses,  and  enabled  me  to  plead  with  my  fellow 
pilgrims  to  come  taste  and  see  that  the  Lord  is  good,  and 
worthy  to  be  served,  honored  and  obeyed  with  an  undivided 
heart ;  richly  rewarding  those  who  love  and  serve  Him,  even 
beyond  all  that  they  can  ask  or  think.  And  that  He  is  a  just 
as  well  as  a  merciful  God,  and  will  not  acquit  the  guilty,  but 
requires  all  to  bow  their  necks  to  the  yoke  of  Christ,  which  if 
they  refuse  to  do,  their  .portion  must  and  will  be  according 
to  his  own  holy  and  righteous  decision  with  those,  "  where 
their  worm  dieth  not,  and  the  fire  is  not  quenched." 

Having  finished  what  was  before  me  in  the  limits  of  our 
own  Preparative  Meeting,  I  went  to  Guernsey,  a  branch  of 
Flushing  Monthly  Meeting,  and  visited  a  number  of  families 
in  that  neighborhood  and  about  Freeport,  chiefly  amongst 
those  not  members  with  Friends,  and  appointed  several 
meetings  amongst  other  societies.  Oh  !  the  depth  of  sorrow 
and  tribulation  that  attended  me  in  this  engagement,  none 
knoweth  but  the  Lord  alone.  It  was  my  desire  to  serve 
Him  faithfully,  and  as  He  saw  meet  to  blindfold  me,  and  lead 
me  along  day  by  day  in  this  way,  it  was  a  great  exercise  of 
faith  and  patience.  Sometimes  I  was  shut  up  for  two  or 
three  weeks,  not  seeing  anything  clearly  to  do  but  to  attend 
meetings  as  they  came  in  course.  This  may  have  appeared 


1874.]  ANN     BRANSON.  323 

to  some  like  idling  away  my  time,  but  there  were  those  who 
were  deeply  interested  for  the  prosperity  of  Truth,  who  were 
as  Aarons  and  Hurs  holding  up  my  hands. 

From  Guernsey  I  went  to  Harrisville  in  the  Eleventh 
Month,  to  attend  our  Quarterly  Meeting,  having  a  prospect 
that  some  service  in  the  way  of  family  visiting  and  appoint- 
ing some  meetings,  would  be  required  of  me  in  the  limits  of 
Short  Creek  Monthly  Meeting.  I  saw  at  first  but  little 
opening,  yet  felt  it  right  to  remain  in  the  neighborhood  and 
wait  to  see  what  the  Head  of  the  Church  required. 

The  next  day  after  Quarterly  Meeting,  I  felt  it  right  to 
request  the  liberty  of  visiting  Dr.  Comly  and  family,  resid- 
ing in  the  town  of  Harrisville.  The  request  being  granted 
by  the  Doctor,  I  made  the  visit  on  Seventh-day  morning, 
and  felt  that  I  had  cast  off  a  burden  which  had  long  rested 
upon  me.  I  was  led  and  enabled  to  deal  honestly  with  the 
doctor  and  his  daughters,  not  turning  to  the  right  hand  or 
the  left,  to  make  my  communication  more  palatable,  or  less 
so  than  I  believed  the  Lord  would  have  it.  O,  that  those 
dwelling  or  resting  upon  dangerous  ground  would  take  heed 
in  time,  before  the  day  of  mercy  closes  over  their  heads. 

On  First-day  afternoon  I  had  an  appointed  meeting  at 
West  Grove — a  few  miles  from  Harrisville — amongst  the 
Gurneyites,  having  obtained  liberty  of  some  of  the  heads  of 
the  meeting  to  occupy  their  house.  At  half-past  two  we 
went  to  the  meeting-house,  and  pretty  soon  the  people  began 
to  collect,  and  the  house  became  pretty  well  filled,  although 
the  day  was  very  rainy.  On  our  way  to  this  meeting,  I  told 
my  companions,  John  and  Edith  Smith,  that  I  did  not  expect 
much  satisfaction,  if  any,  in  this  meeting,  except  what  might 
arise  from  keeping  my  own  proper  place  if  I  might  be 
favored  and  strengthened  so  to  do.  I  thought  the  Gurney- 
ites would  avail  themselves  of  the  opportunity  of  relieving 


324  JOURNAL    OF  [1874. 

their  minds  in  their  own  house,  and  I  was  not  mistaken. 
We  had  to  listen  to  six  communications  from  their  own 
members,  and  some  of  them  quite  lengthy ;  two  in  the  form 
of  prayer.  I  sat  amongst  them  under  the  painful  impres- 
sion that  true  silence  in  and  under  which  the  heart  is  pre- 
pared to  offer  up  living  sacrifices  to  the  Lord,  was  very 
much  lost  sight  of,  and  consequently  experienced  but  little. 
I  could  not  feel  it  my  place  to  sit  altogether  silently  amongst 
them,  though  but  little  opportunity  was  afforded  me  to  speak. 
The  meeting  held  till  nearly  night.  In  viewing  it  over,  I 
felt  well  satisfied  that  I  was  there,  having  done  what  I 
thought  was  my  duty.  After  this  meeting,  I  remained  at 
the  house  of  my  kind  and  sympathetic  friends,  John  and 
Edith  Smith,  not  seeing  any  way  to  move  with  clearness  for 
several  days,  except  attending  the  Monthly  Meeting  of 
Short  Creek.  Soon  after  this  my  way  appeared  to  open 
towards  a  few  families  in  that  neighborhood,  which  I  at- 
tended to  under  much  weakness  of  body  and  exercise  of 
mind ;  and  as  I  moved  cautiously  along,  keeping  my  eye 
as  well  as  I  knew  how,  to  the  Head  of  the  Church,  I  was 
favored  from  day  to  day  to  feel  satisfied,  and  peaceful  in 
the  retrospect,  and  the  field  of  labor  widened,  until  I  visited 
all  the  families  of  Friends  at  Harrisville,  Smithfield  and 
Concord,  with  two  exceptions,  these  not  being  at  home,  and 
divers  others,  not  members;  my  dear  friends,  John  and 
Edith  Smith  bearing  me  company. 

After  getting  through  in  thase  places,  my  mind  was  turned 
towards  Mt.  Pleasant,  where  no  members  belonging  to  our 
Yearly  Meeting  reside.  I  had  long  felt  a  concern  to  visit  some 
families  and  individuals  in  that  town  and  its  vicinity,  and  now 
the  word  of  command  was  given  me  to  go  forth  and  fear  not ; 
but  great  were  my  feelings  of  weakness  and  incompetency 
for  the  work,  but  the  Lord  strengthened  me  in  body  and 


1874.]  ANN     BRANSON.  325 

mind  to  bear  up,  until  He  closed  the  way  for  further  service. 
When  I  had  been  one  day  out  on  this  errand,  the  language 
sounded  in  my  spiritual  ear,  "  Make  haste."  I  therefore 
made  haste,  and  after  three  day's  engagement,  seeing  nothing 
further  with  clearness  but  to  attend  Harrisville  Meeting,  I 
did  so  ;  and  after  that  was  taken  very  sick  with  pneumonia, 
which  quickly  prostrated  my  feeble  frame,  and  rendered 
me  unable  to  return  home  for  more  than  twelve  months. 
This  trial  of  faith  and  patience  none  can  fully  comprehend 
but  those  who  have  had  similar  trials  to  pass  through ;  but 
when  in  all  human  probability  I  was  likely  to  have  to  re- 
main months  longer,  the  Master  opened  the  way  for  me,  and 
I  got  home  in  midwinter,  and  gradually  improved  in  health, 
and  in  a  few  months  got  out  to  meeting  again.  Great  and 
marvellous  are  the  works  of  the  Lord,  and  that  my  soul 
knoweth  right  well.  During  this  illness  at  Harrisville,  I 
was  very  kindly  cared  for  at  the  house  of  our  friends  Wil- 
liam and  Mary  T.  Hall  for  seventeen  weeks,  and  the  house 
of  my  cousins,  Josiah  and  Deborah  Hall  for  thirty-one  weeks, 
nothing  they  could  do  for  me  by  day  or  by  night,  to  make 
me  comfortable,  was  lacking  on  their  part ;  may  my  Heav- 
enly Father  reward  them  for  it. 

In  the  foregoing  account,  I  have  omitted  to  insert  in  their 
proper  places,  some  exercises  and  incidents  connected  with 
this  visit,  which  I  think  proper  to  record. 

After  finishing  the  family  visit  within  the  limits  of  Har- 
risville Preparative  Meeting,  being  at  the  house  of  my  kind 
friends,  John  and  Edith  Smith,  on  awaking  early  one  morn- 
ing, a  bright  prospect  and  hope  of  being  speedily  released 
from  further  service  in  that  Monthly  Meeting  presented  to 
my  mind.  As  I  had  not  been  looking  for  such  a  release,  I 
was  taken  by  surprise,  and  very  pleasant  was  the  prospect. 
Then  self  began  to  claim  a  reward  of  merit,  and  thus  to 


326  JOURNAL    OF  [1874. 

reason :  "  Well  I  have  endeavored  so  far  to  be  faithful  to 
apprehended  duty  in  this  religious  visit,  and  have  become 
pretty  well  resigned  to  do,  or  to  suffer,  whatever  the  Master 
might  require  at  my  hands,  and  now  He  is  about  to  reward 
me  with  a  speedy  release  from  this  arduous  labor  and  exer- 
cise of  mind  and  body,"  and  my  heart  leaped  for  joy  as  the 
prospect  still  remained  bright  before  me.  Arising  from  my  bed 
under  these  feelings,  accompanied  with  the  impression  that 
I  must  wait  until  towards  evening  before  I  mentioned  my 
prospect  to  John  and  Edith  Smith,  next  morning  being 
the  time  set  in  my  mind  to  start  home,  if  I  continued  to  feel 
as  I  then  did.  But  towards  evening  the  bright  hope  and 
joyful  prospect  began  to  fade,  and  it  soon  vanished  like  the 
rainbow,  and  left  no  trace  of  its  former  brightness,  but  left 
me  cast  down  and  disappointed,  if  not  in  a  murmuring  state 
of  mind ;  and  I  queried  and  reasoned  thus,  "  What  does 
this  mean  ?"  I  was  not  seeking  after  or  expecting  such  a 
release  at  this  time,  but  it  was  presented  with  such  bright- 
ness, that  I  thought  it  might  be  real,  but  behold  it  hath 
vanished  !  Then  I  was  given  clearly  to  see  that  this  was 
dispensed  for  my  instruction,  and  for  the  further  trial  of 
my  faith.  I  was  led  to  consider  how  very  joyful  I  felt 
under  the  prospect  of  being  released  from  the  work  and 
service  unto  which  I  had  been  called  by  my  Divine  Lord 
and  Master,  and  how  sad  I  felt  on  being  remanded  back  as 
it  were  to  prison,  to  suffer  with  and  for  the  suffering  seed, 
which  is  pressed  down  in  the  hearts  of  many,  as  a  cart  load- 
ed with  sheaves,  contrasting  my  feelings  when  this  prospect 
opened  before  me  and  when  it  closed;  I  saw  clearly  that  I 
was  far  from  being  able  to  say,  as  many  of  our  worthy 
predecessors  have  said,  viz :  "lam  freely  given  up  to  serve 
the  Lord."  I  was  instructed,  and  saw  that  I  had  need  to 
die  daily  and  go  down  again  and  again  into  baptism  unto 


1875.]  ANN     BRANSON.  327 

death,  not  only  for  the  sake  of  others,  but  for  my  own  safety 
and  purification ;  and  now,  instead  of  returning  home,  I  went 
to  Sraithfield,  to  visit  the  families  of  Friends  of  that  meeting, 
and  others  as  way  opened,  and  I  had  very  relieving  oppor- 
tunities in  some  places,  particularly  with  Dr.  William  8. 
Bates  and  wife.  The  doctor  was  once  an  active  and  promi- 
nent member  of  Ohio  Yearly  Meeting ;  but  after  the  sepa- 
ration in  1854,  he  left  the  society  and  joined  the  Presbyte- 
rians. My  feelings  of  exercise  and  the  weight  which  rested 
on  me  before  going  to  his  house,  cannot  well  be  described, 
but  I  found  that  I  must  not  turn  to  the  right  hand  or  the  left, 
but  declare  the  whole  counsel  if  peace  was  obtained,  which  I 
endeavored  to  do.  The  doctor  was  very  respectful,  express- 
ing his  thankfulness  for  the  visit,  and  I  felt  thankful  for 
the  relief  it  afforded.  Truly  it  is  good  to  wait  upon  the 
Lord  for  strength  and  ability  to  perform  his  will  :  and  none 
who  thus  wait  will  be  disappointed. 

After  returning  from  Smithfield,  I  went  to  Concord, 
attended  the  Monthly  Meeting  held  there,  and  then  pro- 
ceeded with  the  approbation  of  Friends  to  visit  the  families 
of  that  Preparative  Meeting,  and  some  others  not  members, 
to  the  relief  and  peace  of  my  own  mind.  How  needful  when 
engaged  in  such  visits,  to  attend  closely  to  the  openings  and 
shuttings  of  the  Holy  Spirit,  that  the  perplexities  and  trou- 
bles arising  from  omissions  and  commissions  may  be  avoided. 

From  Concord  I  returned  to  Harrisville  to  attend  Short 
Creek  Monthly  Meeting,  in  the  Second  Month,  1875,  hoping 
to  be  ready  to  return  home  after  Monthly  Meeting.  My 
mind  was  so  much  in  that  direction  that  I  could  not  feel 
that  resignation  which  would  have  enabled  me  to  say,  The 
will  of  the  Lord  be  done;  so  I  became  exceedingly  tossed  in 
mind,  feeling  no  settlement  as  to  what  would  be  best,  and  in 
this  state  I  went  to  meeting.  The  waves  and  the  billows 


328  JOURNAL    OF  [1875. 

seemed  ready  to  swallow  me  up,  and  I  cried  unto  the  Lord 
for  help,  being  as  really  in  jeopardy  in  my  spiritual  condition 
as  the  disciples  were  outwardly  on  the  sea  of  Tiberias.  I 
felt  that  I  would  be  willing  to  do  anything  for  a  quiet  settle- 
ment of  mind,  and  when  I  was  brought  to  this  feeling,  the 
Master  rebuked  the  winds  and  waves,  and  there  was  a  great 
calm,  so  that  it  was  marvellous  in  mine  eyes ;  then  I  quietly 
settled  down  to  remain  where  I  was,  and  next  day  attended 
the  funeral  of  Elizabeth  Sidwell,  a  Friend  whom  I  had 
visited  three  weeks  before,  and  who  was  then  in  usual 
health.  On  my  way  to  this  funeral,  calmness  as  a  canopy 
covered  my  mind.  I  desired  to  be  no  where  else  than  where 
I  was ;  such  is  the  mercy  and  goodness  of  God  towards  his 
poor  dependent  children,  the  desire  of  whose  hearts  is,  above 
all  things,  to  do  his  holy  will.  After  the  company  were 
gathered  at  the  house  of  the  deceased,  I  felt  it  right  to  re- 
vive this  impressive  language:  "  Let  not  thine  heart  be  hasty 
to  utter  anything  before  God;  for  God  is  in  heaven,  and 
thou  upon  earth  ;  therefore  let  thy  words  be  few ; "  adding 
a  few  remarks,  expressing  the  desire  I  felt,  that  all  might 
experience  the  fulfilment  of  this  language  of  the  Most  High, 
through  the  mouth  of  his  holy  prophet:  "I  create  the  fruit 
of  the  lips  ;  peace  to  him  that  is  far  off,  and  to  him  that  is 
near,"  &c. 

After  this,  several  communications  were  offered  in  the 
form  of  prayer,  and  several  in  the  way  of  counsel.  After 
a  move  was  made  to  close  the  opportunity,  my  mind  was 
not  easy.  The  spirit  of  supplication  rested  upon  me,  and  I 
felt  it  required  to  give  vocal  utterance  to  my  feelings,  and 
the  Lord  strengthened  me  in  mind  and  body.  My  soul  was 
poured  out  in  fervent  prayer,  that  the  Lord  would  be  pleased 
to  turn  his  holy  hand  upon  us,  in  judgments  mingled  with 
mercy,  no  matter  how  hard  the  strokes  might  be,  so  that 


1875.]  ANN    BRANSON.  329 

we  might  be  of  the  number,  whom  the  Saviour  would  own, 
before  his  Father  and  the  holy  angels,  when  done  with  time 
here  below.  I  felt  sweet  peace  and  consolation,  after  this 
dedication  to  the  will  of  the  Lord.  It  has  not  been  very 
often  that  the  Lord  required  vocal  supplication  of  me  in 
public.  O  what  a  solemn  thing  thus  to  approach  Him ; 
may  I  live  so  under  his  holy  fear  and  qualifying  power  as 
to  offer  no  vain  oblation. 

I  was  one  of  the  few  women  who  ventured  to  the  grave 
side,  the  weather  being  very  cold  ;  but  could  not  feel  satis- 
fied without  again  opening  my  mouth  in  a  warning  voice 
towards  some  who  were  indulging  in  a  false  rest,  concluding 
their  spiritual  condition  to  be  better  than  it  really  was ;  ex- 
horting them  to  awaken  to  the  fearful  reality  of  their  situa- 
tion. To  let  judgment  run  down  as  waters,  in  the  temple  of 
their  hearts,  that  no  disappointment  might  await  them,  in 
the  solemn  hour  of  reckoning.  My  communication  was 
short,  but  afforded  relief  and  peace,  and  I  did  not  appear  to 
suffer  any  bodily  inconvenience  by  thus  exposing  my  frail 
tabernacle. 

Another  incident  occurred  which  rests  with  me  to  leave 
on  record.  It  may  do  some  one  a  little  good  (even  if  it 
never  reaches  the  eyes  of  many)  in  the  way  of  warning  and 
encouragement  to  endeavor  as  much  as  possible  to  have 
their  own  wills  slain  under  the  most  trying  circumstances. 
On  returning  late  in  the  evening  from  Mt.  Pleasant  to 
Harrisville,  after  having  made  several  family  visits  in  and 
around  the  town,  it  rested  with  me  that  something  more  in 
that  line  might  be  required  in  that  place,  yet  these  words 
ran  through  my  mind  so  strongly  and  forcibly,  that  I  felt 
almost  alarmed  at  my  own  thoughts,  which  were  these,  viz  : 
"I  would  rather  die,  than  go  back  to  Mt.  Pleasant."  I  was 
afraid  it  proceeded  from  a  want  of  true  resignation  to  the 
22 


•- 

330  JOURNAL    OF  [1877. 

Lord's  will.  Next  day  I  attended  Harrisville  Meeting,  and 
the  way  appeared  entirely  closed  for  any  further  service  at 
Mt.  Pleasant,  though  I  had  been  looking  towards  appointing 
a  meeting  in  the  town.  Soon  after  Harrisville  Meeting,  I 
was  taken  very  ill,  of  which  I  have  already  spoken,  during 
which  it  often  looked,  that  the  Lord  was  about  to  give  me 
my  choice  "  to  die,  rather  than  go  back  to  Mt.  Pleasant."  I 
have  never  since  felt  it  required  of  me  to  make  any  more 
religious  visits  there. 

Fifth  Mouth  9th,  1877.  Left  home  to  attend  Salem 
Quarterly  Meeting,  and  the  meetings  composing  it,  and  to 
appoint  a  few  meetings  amongst  those  not  in  membership 
with  us,  having  the  approbation  and  unity  of  my  Monthly 
Meeting,  and  my  cousins,  Jacob  Holloway  and  Rebecca  8. 
Branson,  as  assistant  companions.  We  reached  Salem  the 
same  day  we  left  home,  going  by  railroad,  as  my  health  was 
not  sufficient  to  stand  the  journey  in  a  carriage.  On  the 
next  day  attended  New  Garden  Meeting,  where  I  had  con- 
siderable service  to  the  relief  of  my  mind  ;  finding  in  this 
meeting  a  spirit  of  self-importance,  with  which  I  had  to  deal 
plainly,  and  also  to  encourage  the  little  ones.  After  meet- 
ing, dined  with  Anna  Edgerton,  widow  of  the  late  Joseph 
Edgerton.  After  dinner,  felt  my  mind  drawn  to  visit  Dr. 
John  Kite.  He  is  one  of  the  number  who  left  Philadelphia 
Yearly  Meeting  some  years  ago,  believing  as  he  professed, 
that  they  had  so  far  identified  themselves  with  the  doctrines 
of  Joseph  John  Guruey,  and  the  departures  from  ancient 
Quakerism,  that  he  could  no  longer  be  associated  with  such 
a  body  in  religious  fellowship.  The  doctor  has  since  seen 
that  he  was  too  fast  in  judging  and  acting,  and  has  returned 
to  Friends,  giving  an  acknowledgment  as  I  have  learned 
since  our  visit  to  him.  I  dealt  very  plainly,  and  also  very 
tenderly  with  him,  recommending  him  to  make  a  full  sur- 


1877.]  ANN     BRANSON.  331 

render  of  the  whole  heart  to  the  Lord,  believing  if  he  did, 
hard  things  would  be  made  easy,  and  bitter  things  sweet. 
He  appeared  very  glad  of  the  visit,  and  parted  with  us  in  a 
friendly  and  affectionate  disposition.  We  next  called  on 
Elizabeth  Leeds,  one  of  the  leaders  in  the  separation  referred 
to.  She  treated  us  respectfully,  but  our  visit  with  her  was 
not  as  satisfactory  as  with  Dr.  Kite.  I  thought  she  was  in 
a  restless  and  unhappy  state  of  mind,  yet  desiring  to  be 
thought  otherwise.  I  recommended  silence  before  the  Lord. 
Staid  that  night  with  our  kind  friends,  Joseph  and  Rachel 
Stratton,  where  I  had  the  opportunity  of  once  more  meeting 
with  and  enjoying  the  company  of  my  aged  and  well  beloved 
friend,  Sarah  Lupton,  Joseph  Stratton's  mother,  who  is  lively 
in  the  best  sense  of  the  word,  having  long  been  a  worthy 
elder  in  the  Society  of  Friends.  Next  morning,  after  a  re- 
ligious opportunity  in  Joseph's  family,  we  went  to  Salem  in 
order  to  attend  the  Select  Quarterly  Meeting,  held  at  two 
o'clock  that  afternoon.  In  this  meeting  my  mouth  was 
opened,  and  my  heart  enlarged  in  the  love  of  the  gospel 
towards  the  little  company  then  gathered,  expressing  the 
desire  and  necessity,  that  we  might  all  deepen  in  the  root 
of  life.  That  elders  might  dwell  where  they  could  under- 
stand what  to  encourage,  and  what  to  discourage  in  the  line 
of  the  ministry,  and  be  faithful  to  the  openings  of  Truth 
upon  their  minds,  so  as  to  be  helpful  to  the  ministers.  That 
the  ministers  might  dwell  so  low  and  humble  as  to  be  willing 
to  receive  a  word  of  counsel,  or  rebuke,  coming  from  a  bap- 
tized elder,  esteeming  it  as  a  kindness,  and  as  an  excellent 
oil  when  and  where  the  Master  requires ;  and  that  all  might 
be  in  a  disposition  to  follow  out  the  command  of  our  Saviour, 
"  If  I,  your  Lord  and  Master,  have  washed  your  feet,  ye 
ought  also  to  wash  one  another's  feet ;"  thus  are  we  instructed 
to  watch  over  one  another  for  good,  willing  to  receive,  as 


332  JOURNAL     OF  [1877. 

well  as  to  give,  counsel.  Much  openness  appeared  in  the 
minds  of  Friends  to  receive  what  I  had  to  hand  forth,  and 
I  felt  satisfied  and  peaceful  after  this  meeting. 

12th. — Attended  the  Quarterly  Meeting  for  business,  and 
had  considerable  vocal  service  therein,  encouraging  Friends 
not  to  faint  or  give  out  in  this  dark  and  gloomy  day,  ex- 
pressing my  belief  that  the  Lord  will  yet  beautify  his  sanc- 
tuary, and  make  the  place  of  his  feet  glorious  amongst  a 
people  upholding  the  very  doctrines  and  testimonies  that 
the  Society  of  Friends  was  raised  up  to  promulgate  and 
support ;  which  they  did  in  the  midst  of  the  most  cruel  per- 
secution, standing  firm  and  undaunted.  Even  should  all 
who  now  profess  the  name  of  Friends,  forsake  and  abandon 
those  doctrines  and  testimonies,  not  one  jot  or  tittle  of  which 
we  can  rightly  dispense  with,  or  lightly  esteem.  Much 
opened  on  my  mind  in  this  way  to  communicate  in  the  fore- 
part of  the  meeting,  and  after  the  business  was  ended,  I 
requested  the  shutters  opened,  which  was  united  with  by 
men  and  women  Friends.  I  felt  it  required  of  me  to  revive 
the  testimony  of  Francis  Howgill,  contained  in  Sewel's 
history  part  2nd,  pages  14  and  15  ;  setting  forth  the  answer 
of  the  Lord  to  this  faithful  and  dedicated  servant  concerning 
this  people,  whom  He  raised  up  by  the  might  of  his  power, 
written  not  only  for  the  encouragement  of  faithful  Friends 
in  that  day  and  age,  but  also  for  such  in  ages  and  genera- 
tions to  come;  and  also  for  a  solemn  warning  to  all  such  as 
turn  their  backs  upon  the  precious  truths  as  believed  in,  and 
practised  by  faithful  Friends  in  the  rise  of  the  Society,  and 
ever  since. 

"1  will  take  their  enemies;  I  will  hurl  them  hither  and 
thither,  as  stones  are  hurled  in  a  sling ;  and  the  memorial 
of  this  nation,  which  is  holy  unto  me,  shall  never  be  rooted 
out,  but  shall  live  through  ages,  as  a  cloud  of  witnesses  in 


1877.]  ANN     BRANSON.  333 

generations  to  come,  and  nations  shall  know  they  are  my 
inheritance;  and  they  shall  know  I  am  the  living  God,  who 
will  plead  their  cause  with  all  that  riseth  up  in  opposition 
against  them." 

The  greatest  enemies  now  to  the  Society,  are  those  pro- 
fessing the  name  of  Friends,  or  Quakers,  but  who  have  dis- 
carded the  Truth  as  held  and  practised  by  early  Friends, 
and  by  every  true-hearted  Friend  from  that  day  to  this ; 
but  the  Lord  will  deal  with  these  hypocritical  professors, 
and  they  will  "  be  as  when  an  hungry  man  dreameth,  and 
behold  he  eateth  ;  but  he  awaketh,  and  his  soul  is  empty : 
or  as  when  a  thirsty  man  dreameth  and  behold  he  drinketh  ; 
but  he  awaketh,  and  behold  he  is  faint,  and  his  soul  hath 
appetite ; "  and  they  shall  be  "  tossed  like  a  ball  into  a  large 
country,"  having  no  rest  or  foundation  that  will  stand  them 
instead  in  the  hour  of  trial,  and  sore  proving ;  and  that  in 
which  they  now  glory  will  become  their  shame,  for  they 
profess  to  have  found  an  easier  way  to  the  kingdom  of 
heaven  than  by  the  way  of  the  cross  of  Christ,  choosing 
their  own  crosses,  and  marking  out  their  own  course,  and 
saying,  thus  saith  the  Lord,  albeit,  He  hath  not  spoken  by 
them,  neither  hath  He  any  pleasure  in  the  way  they  are 
taking.  Oh,  how  my  soul  has  mourned,  and  still  does,  on 
account  of  these  things.  But  we  who  profess  to  be  standing 
for  the  doctrines  and  testimonies  which  these  have  forsaken, 
will  yet  be  tried  as  to  an  hair's  breadth,  for  great  luke- 
warmness  and  indifferency  as  to  true  and  practical  Chris- 
tianity is  manifest  amongst  us.  That  the  judgments  of  the 
Lord  will  undoubtedly  be  poured  out  upon  us  unless  there 
is  a  deepening  in  the  root.  All  classes  are  called  upon  to 
humble  themselves  as  in  dust  and  ashes  before  the  Lord, 
that  our  spiritual  lives  may  be  given  us  for  a  prey  when  He 
ariseth  to  shake  terribly  the  earth. 


334  JOURNAL     OF  [1877. 

First-day  the  13th,  attended  Springfield  Meeting,  and  had 
close  dealings  with  the  lukewarm  and  indifferent  professors, 
some  of  whom  are  wide  awake  to  see  and  speak  of  the  faults 
of  those  whom  they  see  running  too  fast,  and  who  are  draw- 
ing nigh  to  God  with  their  mouth,  whilst  their  hearts  are 
far  from  Him,  and  yet  are  not  sufficiently  alive  and  awake 
to  their  own  spiritual  condition. 

These  were  exhorted  and  admonished  in  the  love  of  the 
gospel  to  get  down  below  the  surface  of  things,  for  the  Lord 
will  try  every  foundation,  even  as  with  the  hail,  rain  and 
floods,  and  all  the  buildings  which  are  not  founded  on  the 
immovable  rock  Christ  Jesus,  must  come  to  naught,  no 
matter  how  fair  and  specious.  The  remnant  whose  eye,  and 
cry  are  unto  the  Lord  for  help  and  strength,  were  encouraged 
to  trust  in  Him,  for  He  will  never  leave  or  forsake  these. 
He  is  not  a  man  that  He  should  lie,  nor  the  son  of  man 
that  He  should  repent,  but  his  promises  are  yea  and  amen 
forever. 

After  this  meeting  rode  to  Marlboro,  about  eighteen  miles, 
and  lodged  at  John  Brantingham's.  Notice  was  given  for 
a  meeting  next  day  at  ten  o'clock.  At  the  time  appointed, 
the  few  Friends  belonging  to  that  meeting  met,  and  after  a 
time  of  silence,  I  felt  it  right  to  encourage  them  to  do  their 
best  to  keep  up  their  little  meeting ;  reviving  the  language, 
"  Where  two  or  three  are  gathered  together  in  my  name, 
there  am  I  in  the  midst  of  them."  The  children  were  en- 
couraged to  faithfulness,  and  reminded  that  in  the  rise  of 
the  Society,  when  the  parents  were  in  prison,  the  children 
kept  up  the  meetings  in  some  places. 

Dined  with  Margaret  Brantingham,  a  Friend  in  the  ninety- 
seventh  year  of  her  age,  and  had  a  meeting  that  evening  in 
the  town  of  Marlboro,  to  the  relief  of  my  mind  in  a  good 
degree.  The  people  were  exhorted  to  get  down  deeper,  and 


1877.]  ANN     BRANSON.  335 

strive  in  the  right  way,  to  become  true  and  living  worship- 
pers. Supplication  unto  the  Father  of  Mercies  was  offered, 
that  He  might  deepen  us  in  the  root  of  life.  Next  day  re- 
turned to  Salem,  but  not  without  some  misgivings  with  re- 
spect to  the  right  time  for  leaving.  Oh,  my  soul,  wait  thou 
more  faithfully  upon  the  Lord,  that  thou  mayst  carry  no 
burdens  that  might  be  avoided  by  unreserved  dedication. 

16th. — Attended  Salem  Meeting,  and  afterwards  rode  to 
Middletown,  fifteen  miles,  and  lodged  at  Ann  Blackburn's. 
Next  morning  had  a  religious  opportunity  with  this  widow 
and  her  family,  to  the  relief  of  my  mind  ;  and  then  rode  to 
Carmel,  where  a  meeting  was  appointed  to  be  held  next  day 
at  ten  o'clock,  their  usual  hour  for  holding  their  meetings ; 
and  I  think  the  most  suitable  hour  for  morning  meetings. 

18th. — Attended  the  appointed  meeting  at  Carmel,  and 
was  favored  to  relieve  my  mind  amongst  those  assembled. 
Oh,  the  exercises  and  deep  wadings  that  attend  my  mind  as 
we  pass  along,  both  in  meetings  and  out  of  meetings ;  but 
the  Lord  is  my  helper,  or  I  should  utterly  faint  and  fail  of 
strength,  both  in  body  and  mind.  Yesterday,  on  passing  a 
house,  my  mind  was  impressed  that  I  must  call  with  the 
family  living  there,  though  I  then  knew  not  whose  residence 
it  was.  We  dined  with  this  family  to-day,  and  had  a  re- 
ligious opportunity  with  them  to  the  relief  and  peace  of  my 
mind,  and  I  trust  the  labor  will  not  be  lost. 

19th. — Attended  Middleton  Monthly  Meeting,  and  la- 
bored therein  according  to  ability  received,  which  afforded 
peace  of  mind.  Near  the  close  of  the  meeting  for  business, 
I  informed  Friends,  that  I  felt  a  concern  to  appoint  a  meet- 
ing for  the  young  and  youngish  people  belonging  to  Middle- 
ton  and  Carmel,  to  be  held  next  day,  at  some  suitable  hour 
in  the  afternoon,  at  Middleton.  It  was  appointed,  and 
proved  a  relieving  opportunity.  It  was  quite  well  attended, 


336  JOUKNAL     OF  [1877. 

and  the  Lord  strengthened  me  beyond  expectation  to  clear 
my  mind  amongst  them. 

21st. — Visited  several  families  in  the  neighborhood  of 
Middleton  and  Carmel,  though  it  was  a  close  trial  of  faith 
and  patience  ;  some  things  being  hard  to  utter  in  some  fami- 
lies, which  I  believed  was  required  of  me  to  say,  but  unre- 
served obedience  is  always  rewarded  with  sweet  peace  in  the 
Lord's  own  time. 

22nd. — Left  Carmel  and  Middleton  this  morning  for  Sa- 
lem, with  an  easy  mind.  But  the  watchword  is,  rejoice  with 
trembling.  Reached  the  house  of  our  kind  friends,  William 
and  Ruth  Fisher,  about  noon,  where  we  have  made  our 
home. 

24th.: — Attended  Salem  Monthly  Meeting,  in  which  I  had 
close  things  to  utter,  for  it  appeared  to  me  (though  there 
was  a  small  remnant  of  rightly  exercised  souls  in  that  meet- 
ing towards  whom  sympathy  was  felt,  and  to  whom  encour- 
agement was  given),  that  there  were  wounds,  bruises,  and 
putrefying  sores,  that  would  have  to  be  laid  open  and  probed 
to  the  bottom  before  soundness  and  a  healthy  state  could  be 
experienced.  "  He  that  covereth  his  sins  shall  not  prosper : 
but  whoso  confesseth  and  forsaketh  them  shall  have  mercy.'* 
I  referred  to  Achan,  who  hid  in  his  tent  the  golden  wedge, 
and  Babylonish  garment,  which  had  to  be  searched  out,  and 
the  transgressor  punished,  before  Israel  could  get  the  victory 
over  their  enemies.  These  meetings  are  very  exercising 
both  to  mind  and  body,  but  the  Lord  has  been  my  helper. 
Oh,  that  I  may  serve  Him  with  a  perfect  heart  and  a  willing 
mind. 

25th. — Attended  New  Garden  Monthly  Meeting,  an  ex- 
ercising time.  I  arose  with  this  passage — "  Confidence  in 
an  unfaithful  man  in  time  of  trouble,  is  like  a  broken  tooth, 
and  a  foot  out  of  joint."  We  know  what  effect  a  broken 


1877.]  ANN    BRANSON.  337 

tooth  sometimes  has  upon  the  whole  body,  unfit  for  use  itself, 
and  often  preventing  the  sound  members  from  rightly  per- 
forming their  office.  So  that  the  whole  body  may,  and  often 
does,  suffer  weakness  and  pain  in  consequence  of  a  broken 
tooth.  So  in  Society  and  meeting  capacity,  one  unfaithful 
member,  occupying  a  conspicuous  station,  may  cripple  and 
prevent  a  meeting  from  journeying  forward  in  the  right  way, 
and  bring  weakness  and  trouble  upon  the  whole,  if  suffered 
to  remain  in  its  position,  and  diseased  condition.  And  none 
can  be  at  a  loss  to  understand  how  a  foot  out  of  joint  also 
prevents  the  whole  body  from  moving  forward  as  in  a  healthy 
condition.  How  necessary  that  all  endeavor  to  keep  their 
proper  ranks  and  places  in  the  Church ;  that  all  may  be 
edified  together,  and  become  one  another's  helpers  and  joy 
in  the  Lord. 

26th. — Attended  Springfield  Monthly  Meeting.  Much 
vocal  and  mental  exercise  fell  to  my  lot  in  this  meeting. 
The  necessity  of  a  more  lively  engagement  on  the  part  of 
all  classes,  to  be  found  pursuing  the  right  path  appears  to 
me  greatly  wanting  amongst  us  in  every  department  of  so- 
ciety. 

Oh,  when  will  we  put  on  strength  in  the  name  of  the 
Lord?  Not  until  obedience  keeps  pace  with  knowledge — 
not  until  we  make  use  of  the  help  graciously  offered,  being 
faithful  in  the  little,  shall  we  be  made  rulers  over  more, 
and  become  strong  in  the  Lord  and  in  the  power  of  his 
might. 

27th. — Attended  an  appointed  meeting  at  Sandy  Spring, 
at  ten  o'clock  A.  M.,  and  was  favored  to  relieve  my  mind 
therein  towards  the  few  assembled ;  after  which  returned  to 
Salem. 

28th. — Attended  Salem  Meeting,  which  was  large ;  David 
Hestoii  and  Joseph  Walton  from  Philadelphia  being  present, 


338  JOURNAL     OF  [1877. 

on  their  way  to  Colorado  to  visit  the  miners  in  that  district 
of  country.  David  had  considerable  to  say,  and  Joseph  had 
a  short  testimony.  My  mind  was  deeply  exercised  in  this 
meeting,  and  I  could  not  feel  satisfied  to  be  altogether 
silent. 

29th. — Visited  some  families  in  and  around  the  town  of 
Salem.  Close  and  hard  things  to  utter  were  required  of  me 
in  some  of  these  opportunities,  but  faithfulness  was  followed 
by  the  reward  of  peace.  Oh,  the  exercise  of  my  spirit  none 
knoweth  but  the  Lord ;  and  He  alone  can  strengthen  for 
the  work  whereunto  He  calleth,  and  none  has  a  right  to  say 
what  doest  thou?  or  why  hast  thou  made  me  thus?  "Shall 
the  axe  boast  itself  against  him  thatheweth  therewith?  Or 
shall  the  saw  magnify  itself  against  him  that  shaketh  it?" 

30th. — I  was  not  well  able  to  make  any  visits,  so  remained 
at  the  house  of  our  friends,  William  and  Ruth  Fisher,  until 
the  next  day.  Then  attended  Salem  Particular  Meeting 
once  more,  and  had  close  work  and  exercise  therein,  but  en- 
couragement was  handed  forth  to  the  little  wrestling  rem- 
nant, and  supplication  offered  to  the  Father  of  mercies  on 
behalf  of  all  classes,  that  we  might  deepen  in  the  root  of  life. 
After  this  meeting,  I  felt  ready  to  start  home,  and  left  Salem 
about  noon  the  same  day,  arriving  at  Bridgeport  that  even- 
ing. 

Lodged  that  night  at  the  house  of  my  cousin,  Willam  W. 
Holloway,  who  (though  not  a  member  amongst  Friends) 
treated  us  kindly  and  courteously ;  his  wife  and  children 
also,  were  very  kind  and  respectful. 

Next  morning,  I  spoke  a  few  words  in  the  way  of  religious 
counsel  in  the  family,  which  was  well  received  by  parents 
and  children,  and  afforded  peace  to  my  mind.  Then  set  out 
for  home,  but  for  want  of  faithfulness  on  my  way,  being  re- 
quired to  speak  a  few  words  of  exhortation  to  some  men  at 


1877.]  ANN    BRANSON.  339 

the  Inn  where  we  dined,  I  made  work  for  repentance.    When 
will  I  learn  obedience  by  the  things  that  I  suffer? 

Eleventh  Month  7th,  1877.— My  heart  is  greatly  dis- 
tressed on  account  of  the  situation  of  things  amongst  us  in  a 
Society  capacity,  and  in  our  own  little  meeting.  The  world 
seems  to  be  swallowing  us  up ;  many  absent  themselves  from 
our  week-day  meetings,  attending  to  their  temporal  business, 
indifferent  respecting  the  welfare  of  the  immortal  part.  Help, 

0  Lord!  for  vain  is  the  help  of  man. 

9th. — To-day,  followed  to  the  grave  the  remains  of  my 
beloved  cousin,  Joseph  Walker,  an  elder  and  member  of  our 
little  meeting  at  Flushing.  At  the  house  of  the  deceased, 

1  felt  constrained  to  revive  this  language :   "  Why  stand  ye 
here  all  the  day  idle;"  following  it  with  some  exhortation, 
and  felt  peaceful  and  easy  afterwards. 

Oh,  where  are  those  who  are  preparing  to  fill  up  the  bro- 
ken ranks — to  take  the  places  of  those  who  are  being  re- 
moved from  works  to  rewards — who  have  been  supporting 
the  principles  and  testimonies  of  our  religious  Society  ?  Alas ! 
alas!  I  see  not  whence  they  are  to  come;  but  the  Lord  can 
raise  them  up ;  into  his  hands  we  must  commit  all  as  unto 
a  faithful  Creator,  who  will  do  all  things  well. 

Twelfth  Month  22nd. — To-day,  I  enter  the  seventieth 
year  of  my  age.  It  is  marvellous,  indeed,  that  my  days  have 
been  thus  lengthened  out.  May  the  few  that  I  may  yet 
have  to  spend  in  this  state  of  mutability  be  wholly  devoted 
to  the  Lord.  O  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  me,  and  preserve 
me  from  the  snares  of  the  enemy  of  my  soul's  peace ;  wash 
me  from  all  the  filth  and  defilements  of  the  flesh,  whatever 
strokes  it  may  take  to  accomplish  this  great  and  glorious 
work,  that  of  complete  sanctification.  Oh,  heavenly  Father ! 
in  the  riches  of  thy  mercy  administer  the  baptisms  needed, 


SJ  JOURNAL    OF  [1878. 

that  I  may  not  be  surprised  or  disappointed  in  the  end. 
Amen,  and  amen. 

First  Mouth  16th,  1878.— Oh  Lord  !  be  pleased  to  look 
down  with  an  eye  of  compassionate  regard  upon  my  nephew, 
and  cast  him  not  off  in  his  sins  and  transgressions.  Oh,  visit 
him  in  judgments  mingled  with  mercy,  that  he  may  not  be- 
come a  castaway.  Amen,  and  amen. 

Tenth  Month  18th. — I  attended  all  the  sittings  of  our  late 
Yearly  Meeting,  held  at  Stillwater,  near  Barnesville,  in  the 
new  house  erected  for  the  purpose.  The  public  meetings 
were  largely  attended,  both  on  First  and  Fourth  days.  On 
First-day  afternoon,  many  could  not  find  seats  in  the  house, 
which  caused  that  meeting  to  be  a  little  more  disturbed  than 
it  would  have  been  if  all  could  have  been  comfortably  seated. 
But  the  morning  meeting,  and  the  meeting  on  Fourth-day, 
were  very  quiet,  the  people  behaving  with  much  propriety ; 
and  I  felt  it  right  to  appear  on  First-day  morning,  and  on 
Fourth-day,  in  a  short  testimony. 

Although  I  have  generally  been  silent  on  such  occasions, 
and  esteemed  it  a  favor,  yet  I  labored  under  deep  exercise 
for  the  arising  of  life  in  these  meetings,  and  for  keeping 
down  strange  fire;  that  ministers  might  not  warm  themselves 
with  sparks  of  their  own  kindling,  and  thus  apprehend  them- 
selves called  upon  to  speak  when  the  Lord  had  not  com- 
manded. Such  preaching  can  never  profit  the  people,  how- 
ever eloquent  the  discourse,  or  however  befitting  the  occasion 
in  the  view  of  the  natural  man.  William  Penn  says  of  the 
ministry — "Without  the  life,  ever  so  little  is  too  much;  but 
with  the  life,  much  is  not  too  much." 

Eleventh  Month  14th. — Slept  but  little  last  night,  and 
spent  the  time  whilst  awake,  under  much  exercise  and  con- 
flict of  mind.  It  feels  to  me  that  we  shall  meet  with  great 
calamities  yet  before  we  are  humbled,  and  rightly  and  duly 


1879.]  ANN    BRANSON.  341 

concerned  to  give  that  glory  and  honor  to  God,  which  is  his 
due  from  his  creature  man,  and  which  it  is  our  interest  as 
well  as  duty  to  render  unto  Him. 

Fourth  Month  27th,  1879. — Yesterday,  attended  the  fu- 
neral of  our  beloved  friend,  Isaac  Mitchell.  It  was  large 
and  solemn.  The  company  met  at  the  meeting-house,  in 
accordance  with  a  proposition  made  by  this  dear  Friend  in 
our  Preparative  Meeting,  believing  as  he  did,  that  by  adopt- 
ing this  practice  much  confusion  and  exposure  to  heat  and 
cold,  &c.,  might  be  avoided,  which  often  occurs  at  the  house 
of  the  deceased  for  want  of  room  for  all  to  be  comfortably 
seated.  Moreover,  it  prevents  unnecessary  conversation, 
which  is  often  painful  to  the  rightly  exercised  on  such  oc- 
casions. 

I  had  to  revive  this  Scripture  passage  as  being  applicable 
to  the  deceased — "Mark  the  perfect  man,  and  behold  the  up- 
right, for  the  end  of  that  man  is  peace."  I  also  revived  the 
language  of  the  apostle — "  By  the  grace  of  God  I  am,  what 
I  am."  As  this  light,  grace  and  Truth  is  followed  (which 
is  the  gift  of  God  through  Jesus  Christ  to  fallen  man),  we 
shall  be  led  out  of  darkness,  and  from  under  the  yoke  of  sin 
and  transgression.  It  is  by  following  this  purchased  gift  of 
grace,  that  we  become  crucified  to  the  world  and  the  world 
unto  us.  "  I  am  crucified  with  Christ  (saith  the  apostle), 
nevertheless,  I  live ;  yet  not  I,  but  Christ  liveth  in  me ;  and 
the  life  which  I  now  live  in  the  flesh,  I  live  by  the  faith  of  the 
Son  of  God,  who  loved  me,  and  gave  himself  for  me."  As 
we  submit  to  the  crucifying  power  of  the  cross  of  Christ,  we 
shall  know  the  putting  off  of  the  old  man  with  his  deeds, 
and  the  putting  on  of  the  new  man,  which  after  God  is  cre- 
ated in  righteousness  and  true  holiness,  and  experience  our 
robes  washed  and  made  white  in  the  blood  of  the  Lamb,  and 
be  prepared  to  be  owned  of  Christ  before  his  Father  and  the 


342  JOURNAL    OF  [1879. 

holy  angels,  when  done  with  time  here  below,  and  to  ascribe 
glory,  thanksgiving  and  high  renown  unto  the  Lord  God 
and  the  Lamb  forever  and  forever  more. 

29th. — Some  very  weighty  considerations  press  upon  my 
spirit  in  regard  to  future  engagements  in  a  religious  visit, 
which  has  at  times  been  before  me  for  years  past.  Oh,  that 
I  may  be  kept  from  taking  a  wrong  step,  either  backward 
or  forward.  Dare  I  trust  that  I  shall  be  thus  kept?  Oh, 
heavenly  Father,  rather  prepare  me  for  the  closing  moment 
and  take  me  hence,  than  suffer  me  to  bring  reproach  upon 
thy  name  and  Truth,  now  in  my  declining  years,  by  stepping 
forward  or  backward  in  the  way  thou  wouldst  not  have  me 
go.  Amen,  and  amen. 

Seventh  Month  8th. — What  shall  I  say,  tossed,  tried  and 
tempted  on  every  hand ;  and  yet  a  little  hope  remains,  that 
my  gracious  Creator  will  not  forsake  me,  unworthy  as  I  am 
of  the  least  of  his  favors.  Oh,  thou  who  stretched  forth  thy 
merciful  hand  to  save  Peter  from  the  watery  grave,  have 
mercy,  I  pray  thee,  upon  me  in  this  critical  time;  yes,  in  this 
very  critical  time. 

27th. — I  have  great  cause  for  thankfulness  and  encour- 
agement. The  Lord  hath  condescended  to  settle  my  mind 
at  present,  with  respect  to  a  very  important  subject,  which 
has  been  for  months  pressing  heavily  upon  me  ;  and  although 
I  do  not  feel  released  from  the  concern,  yet  the  time  for 
opening  it  to  my  friends  did  not  appear  in  the  light  of  Truth 
to  be  fully  come.  Though  it  had  seemed  to  me  for  months 
past,  that  it  might  be  very  near,  and  a  great  conflict  of  mind 
was  often  my  portion,  that  I  might  be  rightly  directed  and 
strengthened  to  do  the  will  of  the  Lord,  and  now  I  can  truly 
say  in  the  language  of  the  Psalmist — The  Lord  hath  heard 
my  prayer,  He  hath  put  gladness  in  my  heart ;  He  hath 
stilled  the  tempest.  Surely,  if  the  Lord  had  not  helped  me, 


1881.]  ANN    BRANSON.  343 

I  had  been  swallowed  up  amidst  the  waves  of  affliction  and 
distress.  Bless  the  Lord,  oh  my  soul,  and  all  that  is  within 
me  bless  his  holy  name. 

Fifth  Month  27th,  1880.— I  find  that  ten  months  have 
passed  away  since  I  made  the  last  entry  in  this  little  book, 
and  now  what  can  I  say  ?  Worm  Jacob !  Had  not  the  Lord 
been  my  help,  my  soul  had  almost  dwelt  in  silence.  Great 
conflicts  at  times  have  been  my  portion,  yet  the  Lord  hath 
kept  me  from  sinking  into  the  gulf  of  despair. 

My  well-beloved  cousin,  Joseph  Branson,  departed  this 
life  on  the  16th  of  last  month,  aged  forty-three  years,  three 
months  and  sixteen  days.  Oh,  what  an  unexpected  bereave- 
ment to  his  dear  parents,  to  his  relatives,  and  to  the  Church. 
Truly  he  was  one  who  might  be  justly  compared  to  the  salt 
of  the  earth,  and  the  light  of  the  world,  as  Christ  said  of  his 
disciples.  Joseph's  example  shone  brightly  in  the  midst  of 
a  crooked  and  perverse  generation,  and  no  one  could  have 
just  occasion  to  upbraid  him,  or  find  fault  with  his  example 
or  precept — "  Mark  the  perfect  man  and  behold  the  upright, 
for  the  end  of  that  man  is  peace." 

First  Month  6th,  1881. — I  thought  it  might  be  allowable 
to  record  something  further,  relative  to  my  dear  departed 
cousin,  in  connection  with  my  own  experience.  A  few  weeks 
before  his  departure,  whilst  I  was  sitting  by  his  bedside,  he 
referred  to  his  exercises  on  behalf  of  others  and  of  some  re- 
ligious opportunities  in  his  room,  in  which  he  had  to  use 
great  plainness  of  speech  towards  those  present.  I  expressed 
my  thankfulness  that  he  was  called  upon,  and  qualified  to 
do  something  for  the  cause  of  Truth,  in  the  way  of  counsel, 
&c.  That  my  own  way  was  shut  up  in  regard  to  the  minis- 
try, that  I  thought  I  had  no  place  with  the  people  in  this 
way  in  our  little  meeting.  Joseph  quickly  replied,  "  I  do 
not  think  so :  there  is  no  one  who  has  the  least  conception 


344  JOURNAL    OF  [1881. 

of  thy  secret,  silent  exercises  and  conflicts  of  mind  ;  repeat- 
ing it  twice,  "not  the  least  conception;  but  it  will  not  be 
always  thus  with  thee." 

After  his  death,  the  dispensation  under  which  I  had  been 
passing,  that  of  great  conflict  of  mind  and  desertion,  was 
changed,  and  at  his  funeral  my  heart  was  lifted  up  in  praise 
and  thanksgiving  unto  the  Lord,  for  having  released  from 
the  shackles  of  mortality  his  purified  spirit,  and  translated 
it  into  that  holy  and  glorious  city  which  needeth  not  the 
light  of  the  sun  or  moon  to  shine  in  it,  for  the  Lord  God 
and  the  Lamb  are  the  light  thereof.  For  several  days  after 
this,  praise  and  thanksgiving  were  the  constant  attendants 
of  my  mind ;  and  I  seemed  permitted  to  rejoice  with  the 
spirit  of  my  departed  cousin,  which  words  could  not  fully 
set  forth.  Truly,  times  and  seasons  are  in  the  hands  of  the 
Lord,  and  such  joyful  emotions  as  I  experienced  on  that 
memorable  occasion  was  as  the  meat  of  forty  days. 

Seventh  Month  25th. — Several  weeks  ago  I  fell  and  in- 
jured the  elbow-joint  of  my  right  arm.  Soon  after,  it  com- 
menced swelling  and  inflaming,  and  in  a  few  days  the  whole 
arm,  from  the  shoulder  to  the  ends  of  my  fingers,  became  so 
swollen,  inflamed  and  discolored,  as  seriously  to  threaten 
my  life.  But  He  who  is  justly  termed  the  Controller  of 
events,  saw  meet  to  bless  the  endeavors  for  my  relief,  and  I 
am  now  able  to  use  my  arm  and  hand  considerably,  which 
to  me,  is  marvellous,  considering  the  aspect  it  presented 
some  weeks  ago.  Truly  it  may  be  asked,  "  Is  anything  too 
hard  for  the  Almighty  ? "  I  have  looked  upon  this  dispensa- 
tion, and  considered  it  administered  in  mercy,  to  draw  my 
mind  into  greater  watchfulness  and  circumspection  in  regard 
to  my  thoughts,  words  and  deeds,  and  to  remind  me  that  at 
such  a  time,  as  I  think  not  the  Son  of  man  cometh.  Oh, 


1881.]  ANN     BRANSON.  345 

that  I  may  be  ready  to  render  up  my  accounts  with  joy, 
whether  the  summons  be  sudden  or  otherwise. 

Twelfth  Month  17th.— If  I  live  till  the  22nd  of  this  month 
I  shall  have  attained  the  age  of  seventy-three,  and  I  feel  like 
adopting  the  language  of  my  dear  father  a  few  months  before 
his  death,  viz :  "  I  am  now  nearly  seventy-three  years  of  age, 
and  what  have  I  done  to  promote  the  great  cause  of  Truth 
and  righteousness  in  the  earth  ?  Alas !  but  little,  although 
from  my  youth  I  have  loved  the  Truth  —  yes,  as  early 
as  my  twelfth  year,  the  Lord  was  pleased  to  show  me  the 
beauty  of  holiness.  At  that  age  I  was  left  almost  without 
human  help  to  aid  or  instruct  me  in  the  way  of  life  and 
peace,  yet  He  that  sticks  closer  than  a  brother,  has  never 
forsaken  me.  Blessed  be  his  name." 

I  cannot  say  that  I  was  left  destitute  of  instrumental  help 
and  instruction  in  my  childhood  and  youth,  for  I  had  godly 
parents,  whose  concern  was  to  train  me  up  in  the  nurture 
and  admonition  of  the  Lord.  I  return  to  my  father's  ex- 
pression, viz  :  "  But  when  I  remember  my  shortcomings,  I 
am  afraid  they  will  overbalance  all.  Oh,  what  a  fearful 
thing  when  weighed  in  the  balance  and  found  wanting ;  I 
have  nothing  to  depend  upon  but  the  Lord's  mercy ;  teach 
me,  Oh  Lord,  to  pray  as  thou  taught  thy  disciples  formerly." 

In  the  closing  up  of  the  record  of  my  dear  father,  taken 
from  his  diary,  after  supplicating  on  his  own  behalf,  and  on 
the  behalf  of  his  children  unitedly,  he  thus  writes,  "Oh, 
Lord,  remember  the  afflicted  daughter  whom  thou  hast 
raised  up,  as  it  were,  from  the  dead,  to  proclaim  thy  gospel 
to  the  children  of  men.  Now,  in  her  bodily  affliction,  con- 
tinue to  support  her  mind  under  every  proving  dispensation, 
that  she  may  sing  thy  praise  on  the  banks  of  deliverance." 
.O  how  precious  to  have  been  thus  remembered  before  the 
Throne  of  Grace  by  that  godly  parent;  and  what  cause 
23 


346  JOURNAL     OF  [1881. 

for  unspeakable  gratitude  to  the  Father  of  mercies,  that 
during  the  lapse  of  thirty-five  years  which  have  passed 
away  since  that  prayer  on  my  behalf  was  recorded,  in  all 
my  sins  of  omission  and  commission — in  all  the  heights  and 
depths  through  which  I  have  been  permitted  to  pass,  the 
Lord  hath  not  forsaken  me,  as  I  humbly  hope  and  trust, 
but  still  continues  to  extend  mercy  towards  me ;  and  I  ear- 
nestly crave  to  be  ready  for  the  summons  of  death,  and  can 
again  adopt  the  language  of  my  departed  parent,  written 
about  two  months  before  his  decease,  viz  :  "  Oh,  that  my  sun 
may  set  without  a  cloud  !  Lord,  if  there  be  any  wicked  way 
in  me  do  thou  it  away,  cleanse  thou  me  from  secret  faults. 
0  Lord,  remember  mercy  in  judgment.  Thou  canst,  if  thou 
wilt,  make  me  clean." 

Same  date. — Our  last  Yearly  Meeting  was  a  time  of  much 
exercise  to  my  mind,  and  to  many  other  Friends,  old  and 
young ;  a  great  flow  of  words  in  the  line  of  the  ministry  was 
witnessed  amongst  us,  though  no  strangers  with  minutes 
from  other  places  were  present.  Oh  that  we  could  learn 
what  this  meaneth :  "  Be  still  and  know  that  I  am  God." 

I  felt  it  required  of  me  at  the  last  sitting  to  visit  men's 
meeting,  and  having  the  full  approbation  of  men  and  women 
Friends,  I  did,  and  endeavored  to  relieve  my  mind.  I  told 
Friends  I  feared  we  were  losing  ground  in  regard  to  our 
testimony  on  the  subject  of  silent  worship.  That  whenever 
we  begin  to  conclude  that  we  could  not  have  a  good  meet- 
ing without  the  intervention  of  words  (no  matter  how  large 
the  company,  or  who  was  present)  we  were  getting  upon 
anti-Christian  and  anti-Quaker  ground — that  I  had  been 
grieved  and  distressed,  under  the  belief  that  we  were  be- 
coming more  and  more  superficial  in  our  worship,  &c.,  and 
much  more  to  the  same  import,  after  which  I  felt  much  re- 
lieved. 


1882.]  ANN     BRANSON.  347 

Twelfth  Month  22nd. — To-day  I  enter  the  seventy-fourth 
year  of  my  age.  How  solemn  the  consideration,  that  I  stand, 
as  it  were,  on  the  very  threshold  of  eternity.  Be  pleased,  Oh 
Lord,  to  enable  me  to  watch  and  pray  continually,  that  I 
may  spend  the  few  remaining  days  or  hours  allotted  me 
here  below,  in  the  way  that  would  be  well  pleasing  in  thy 
sight. 


CHAPTER  XII. 

EXERCISES  OF  THE  YEARLY  MEETING'S  COMMITTEE  RELATIVE  TO  IMPEND- 
ING DUTY  TOWARDS  SMALL  BODIES  OF  FRIENDS  WHO  HAVE  LATELY 
WITHDRAWN  FROM  SOME  OF  THE  PROGRESSIVE  BODIES,  IN  A  TESTIMONY 
AGAINST  THEIR  UNSOUNDNESS — CONSIDERATIONS  ALSO  INCLUDED  TOUCH- 
ING CORRESPONDENCE  WITH  THE  SMALLER  BODY  IN  NEW  ENGLAND— 
A  RELIGIOUS  VISIT  TO  THE  MEETINGS  CONSTITUTING  OHIO  YEARLY  MEET- 
ING, EXTENDING  TO  IOWA  AND  KANSAS — DEATH  OF  HER  COUSIN,  ELIZA- 
BETH SMITH — VISITED  HER  AGED  FRIEND,  HANNAH  WARRINGTON,  OF 
MOORESTOWN,  N.  j. — AND  ATTENDED  SOME  MEETINGS  IN  THAT  VICINITY 
— DEATH  OF  HER  BROTHER-IN-LAW,  JESSE  ROBERTS,  AND  HER  COMMEN- 
DATION OF  HIS  CHRISTIAN  VIRTUES — ATTENDED  THE  ORTHODOX  CANADA 

YEARLY  MEETING,  AND  VISITED  SOME  OF  ITS  BRANCHES — DEATH  OF  HER 
NEPHEW,  BENJAMIN  BRANSON — DEATH  OF  MARTHA  A.  WILSON — DEATH 
OF  STEPHEN  HOBSON — A  RELIGIOUS  VISIT  TO  THE  ORTHODOX  WESTERN 
YEARLY  MEETING — A  TEDIOUS  ILLNESS. 

Fifth  Month  31st,  1882. — The  Committee  appointed  at 
our  last  Yearly  Meeting  to  take  into  consideration  the  situa- 
tion of  the  scattered  remnants  of  Friends  and  what  our 
present  duty  is,  as  a  Yearly  Meeting  in  relation  to  those 
remnants,  and  report  the  result  of  our  deliberations  to  next 
Yearly  Meeting,  met  at  Stillwater,  and  entered  into  a  pretty 
full  and  free  interchange  of  sentiment  on  the  subject ;  but 
were  not  able  to  unite  upon  any  proposition  to  lay  before 
the  Yearly  Meeting ;  and  adjourned  to  meet  on  Sixth-day 
preceding  our  next  Yearly  Meeting  at  three  o'clock,  p.  M. 


348  JOURNAL    OF  [1882. 

During  our  deliberations,  I  ventured  to  express  in  this  com- 
mittee my  belief,  that  our  Yearly  Meeting  ought  to  place  on 
its  records  a  Minute,  stating  that  we  as  a  Yearly  Meeting  had 
grievously  erred  in  not  having,  many  years  ago,  recognized 
officially  the  Smaller  Body  (so  called)  of  New  England, 
as  the  legitimate  Yearly  Meeting.  That  I  believed  it  was 
human  policy,  and  a  fearful  cringing  spirit,  that  prevented 
us  from  doing  our  duty  towards  these  Friends.  And  now, 
after  a  lapse  of  thirty-six  years,  they  having  become  very 
much  reduced,  and  somewhat  scattered,  no  doubt  in  a  great 
measure,  owing  to  the  indifferent  treatment  they  have  re- 
ceived from  their  brethren  of  Ohio  and  Philadelphia  Yearly 
Meetings,  some  want  to  send  a  committee  to  see  if  they  are 
in  a  condition  to  be  acknowledged  as  a  Yearly  Meeting. 
With  respect  to  the  few  Friends  who  separated  from  Balti- 
more Yearly  Meeting,  in  1854,  because  they  could  not  for 
conscience'  sake  own  the  Binns'  Yearly  Meeting  of  Ohio, 
Ohio  Yearly  Meeting  turned  its  back  on  these  Friends 
because  Philadelphia  Yearly  Meeting  had  previously  done 
so.  And  thus  another  grievous  error  was  committed,  and 
my  judgment  is  and  has  been,  that  we  ought  to  humble 
ourselves  so  as  to  place  upon  our  records  a  Minute  certify- 
ing our  mistake  in  both  these  cases.  But  we  have  yet  to 
be  tried  and  proven  for  our  conduct  towards  our  faithful 
brethren  and  sisters,  as  Joseph's  brethren  were  tried  and 
proven,  until  they  bowed  and  humbled  themselves  in  the 
sight  of  God  and  man.  The  Lord  will  not  suffer  sin  to  go 
unrequited,  and  we  will  have  to  become  humbled  before  we 
can  prosper  in  the  Truth,  and  receive  that  supply  of  spiritual 
bread,  which  is  greatly  lacking  and  needed  amongst  us. 

Tenth  Month  2nd. — Our  Yearly  Meeting  closed  last  week. 
I  attended  all  the  sittings,  having  been  previously  very  ill 
for  several  weeks.  It  seemed  almost  a  miracle  that  I  was 


1882.]  ANN     BRANSON.  349 

enabled  to  do  so.  I  had  some  service  in  vocal,  as  well  as  in 
silent  exercise  in  the  meetings  for  worship  and  discipline. 
In  the  public  meeting  on  Fourth-day,  the  language  of  the 
Apostle  Paul  in  reference  to  his  own  ministry,  and  that  of 
his  fellow  apostles,  was  brought  before  me  in  a  way  that  I 
thought  called  for  public  expression,  to  which  I  gave  ut- 
terance: "We  preach  not  ourselves,  but  Christ  Jesus  the 
Lord  ;  and  ourselves  your  servants  for  Jesus'  sake."  And. 
again,  in  reference  to  the  gospel  which  he  preached,  he  said, 
"  I  neither  received  it  of  man,  neither  was  I  taught  it,  but  by 
the  revelation  of  Jesus  Christ."  Hence  the  true  spring  and 
ground  of  gospel  ministry  is  that  of  being  called  unto,  and 
qualified  therefor,  by  Christ  Jesus,  our  Lord,  knowing  Him 
to  put  forth  and  go  before,  to  be  mouth  and  wisdom,  tongue 
and  utterance.  All  ministry  without  this  Divine  unction  is 
nothing  better  than  sounding  brass  or  a  tinkling  cymbal, 
words  without  life,  sound  without  substance,  &c.  I  exhorted 
the  people  to  turn  inward  to  the  teachings  of  the  Holy  Spirit 
in  the  temple  of  the  heart ;  as  this  is  obeyed  and  followed 
we  shall  experience  our  spirits  refreshed  and  strengthened 
by  the  life-giving  presence  of  Him  who  is  the  minister  of 
the  sanctuary  and  true  tabernacle  which  God  hath  pitched, 
and  not  man. 

Twelfth  Month  22ud.— To-day,  I  enter  the  seventy-fifth 
year  of  my  age.  How  solemn  the  consideration  that  my 
life  has  been  thus  lengthened  out.  Oh,  that  I  may  be  pre- 
pared with  oil  in  my  vessel  for  the  midnight  cry :  this  is 
my  chief  and  daily  concern. 

29th. — Hear  my  prayer,  oh  Lord,  and  incline  thine  ear 
unto  my  cry.  Save  me  from  mine  enemies  and  let  them  not 
have  dominion  over  me.  I  look  for  help  from  no  other 
source  but  from  thee.  Oh,  pardon  all  my  sins  and  pass  by 
my  transgressions,  surely  I  am  in  great  need  and  want,  wilt 


350  JOURNAL    OF  [1883. 

thou  not  be  pleased  to  succor  me,  and  help  me ;  blot  out  my 
transgressions  from  thy  book  of  remembrance  for  Jesus 
Christ's  sake.  Amen,  and  ainen. 

First  Month  9th,  1883. — My  soul  is  distressed,  what  shall 
I  do  ?  I  can  do  nothing  but  ask  for  mercy  and  help  from 
thee,  oh,  thou  fountain  and  source  of  all  true  consolation. 

Third  Month  20th. — About  the  twenty-fourth  year  of  rny 
age,  it  pleased  my  heavenly  Father  to  open  my  understand- 
ing, and  give  me  a  sight  and  sense  of  the  fallen  and  degen- 
erate condition  of  man  by  nature.  I  then  clearly  saw  that 
when  Adam  ate  of  the  forbidden  fruit  spiritual  death  came 
upon  him,  according  to  the  word  of  the  Lord,  viz:  "In  the 
day  thou  eatest  thereof  thou  shalt  surely  die."  I  saw  that 
by  this  act  of  disobedience  he  lost  the  Divine  image,  that 
state  of  purity  and  holiness  in  which  he  was  created,  not  in 
part  only  but  wholly  and  entirely.  That  he  had  no  spirit- 
ual light  or  life,  no  sight  or  sense  of  anything  good,  and 
consequently  no  power,  capacity  or  inclination  to  do  any 
good  thing,  and  in  this  state  of  death  and  darkness  he  must 
have  remained,  shut  out  from  the  presence  and  favor  of  his 
Creator  forever,  had  not  infinite  Goodness  sought  him  out 
and  extended  a  new  visitation  of  light  and  life  to  his  soul; 
thus  opening  the  door  for  his  escape  from  this  state  of  death 
and  darkness,  and  from  all  sin  and  transgression,  and  this 
door  I  saw  to  be  Christ  Jesus  the  Lamb  slain  from  the  foun- 
dation of  the  world  in  man. 

Then  understood  I  what  this  Scripture  meaneth — "  For, 
as  in  Adam  all  die,  even  so  in  Christ  shall  all  be  made  alive ; " 
and  my  heart  was  greatly  humbled  in  and  under  the  sight 
and  sense  then  given  me  of  the  mercy  of  God  through  Christ 
Jesus  towards  his  creature  man,  and  I  felt  this  mercy  to  be 
unspeakably  great. 

Fifth  MontlrlSth. — Having  obtained  liberty  from  the 


1883.]  ANN     BRANSON.  351 

Monthly  and  Quarterly  Meetings  to  pay  a  religious  visit  to 
the  meetings  of  Ohio  Yearly  Meeting,  and  to  appoint  some 
meetings  amongst  those  not  in  membership  with  us,  my 
prospect  is  to  start  for  Iowa  on  the  22nd  inst.  If  it  were 
not  for  a  grain  of  faith  I  should  faint  under  the  prospect, 
but  trust  the  Lord  will  keep  me  in  the  hollow  of  his  holy 
hand,  and  preserve  me  from  stumbling.  Amen. 

Ninth  Month  2'6th.— On  the  8th  of  last  month,  I  and  the 
Friends  accompanying  me  returned  home  from  the  west, 
where  we  spent  eleven  weeks  visiting  Friends  in  Iowa  and 
Kansas,  as  Truth  appeared  to  open  the  way ;  and  when  this 
pointed  homeward  with  sufficient  clearness  we  hesitated  not 
to  return,  and  did  so  in  the  enjoyment  of  health  and  peace 
of  mind. 

But  what  shall  I  now  say  of  the  mercy  and  goodness  of 
God  to  usward  in  this  weighty  and  very  important  engage- 
ment? It  is  wonderful  to  reflect  upon,  and  to  know  the  ex- 
tension thereof  manifested  to  a  poor  worm  of  the  dust  as  I 
feel  myself  to  be.  When  my  physical  and  mental  powers 
seemed  ready  to  fail  me,  then,  oh  Lord  my  God,  thou  didst 
indeed  give  me  to  see  and  to  feel  that  nothing  is  too  hard 
for  thee  to  perform. 

Tenth  Month  30th. — Oh,  that  my  head  were  waters,  and 
mine  eyes  a  fountain  of  tears,  that  I  might  weep  day  and 
night,  not  only  for  my  own  shortcomings  and  dwarfish  state, 
but  for  that  of  my  people  also !  Oh,  the  shakings  and  sittings 
that  yet  await  us !  Who  will  be  able  to  stand  ? 

During  my  late  visit  in  the  West,  I  had  to  tell  Friends  in 
some  places  that  the  shakings  and  sittings  were  not  over. 
At  Quakerville,  Kansas,  I  was  led  in  their  Monthly  Meet- 
ing to  bring  into  view  the  situation  of  the  remnant  of  Jews, 
who  were  left  in  the  land  when  the  great  majority  were  car- 
ried into  Babylon.  There  was  a  gathering  to  this  little 


352  JOURNAL    OF  [1883. 

remnant,  and  they  were  encouraged  to  faithfulness  that  the 
blessing  of  the  Lord  might  rest  upon  them.  But  their  faith 
and  allegiance  was  to  be  proven.  Ishmael  got  among  them 
and  slew  Gedaliah  and  others  of  their  chief  men.  Then 
came  the  trial  of  their  faith — they  were  in  great  consterna- 
tion and  fear  on  account  of  this  unexpected  event  and  pur- 
posed to  return  into  Egypt,  and  though  they  were  warned 
by  the  prophet  Jeremiah  to  remain  where  they  were  and 
assured  that  the  blessing  of  the  Lord  would  rest  upon 
them,  yet  they  would  not  hearken  unto  him,  though  they 
had  entreated  him  to  ask  counsel  of  the  Lord  for  them  in 
this  matter ;  and  lo,  the  scattering,  confusion,  weakness  and 
wickedness  that  followed,  &c. 

I  said  there  was  still  a  remnant  amongst  the  Society  of 
Friends,  who  have  escaped  Hicksism  and  Gurneyism,  who, 
if  faithful  unto  the  Lord,  would  be  blessed,  and  be  able  to 
lift  up  the  standard  of  primitive  Christianity,  as  did  our 
early  Friends,  and  others  would  rally  thereto ;  but  there 
were  those  who  might  be  compared  to  Gedaliah  and  his  men, 
who  were  conspicuous  amongst  this  remnant,  and  it  seemed 
to  me,  there  were  those  present  of  this  class,  who  were  in  great 
danger  of  being  slain  by  Ishmael,  the  son  of  the  bond  woman, 
•which  is  not  to  be  heir  with  the  son  of  the  free  woman. 
When  the  first  and  fallen  nature  is  given  way  to  and  gets 
the  uppermost  room  in  the  heart  and  keeps  it,  then  such  as 
give  way  thereto  lose  their  spiritual  lives,  and  become  stum- 
bling-blocks instead  of  way-marks.  But  even  when  such 
events  occur,  there  is  still  hope  for  those  who  keep  the  eye 
to  the  Lord,  and  as  He  preserved  Noah,  Daniel  and  Job 
amidst  peculiar  trials,  so  will  'He  preserve  all  those  who  put 
their  trust  in  Him,  no  matter  what  conflicts  and  trials  may 
be  permitted  to  come  upon  them.  So  I  encouraged  Friends 
to  keep  the  eye  single  to  the  Head  of  the  Church,  that  they 


1883.]  ANN     BRANSON.  353 

might  be  able  to  stand  when  tried  and  proven  as  to  an  hair's 
breadth. 

At  Emporia  and  other  places  I  had  to  warn  Friends  to 
stand  fast  to  the  principles  and  testimonies  of  the  Society, 
when  the  Gedaliahs  were  slain  for  the  want  of  watchfulness 
and  keeping  under  the  power  of  Truth.  O  treacherous  self, 
if  it  be  not  slain,  how  it  will  work  the  downfall  of  its  pos- 
sessors before  they  are  aware  fully  of  the  danger  they  are 
in.  This  visit  to  the  West  was  marked  with  many  close  trials 
and  deep  provings,  but  I  was  often  bound  to  acknowledge 
with  the  Psalmist — "  Great  aud  marvellous  are  thy  works, 
Lord  God  Almighty,  just  and  true  are  all  thy  ways,  thou 
King  of  saints." 

Twelfth  Month  22nd. — To-day,  I  enter  the  seventy-sixth 
year  of  my  age.  O  Lord !  thou  only  knowest  for  what  pur- 
pose I  am  thus  permitted  to  continue  in  this  state  of  proba- 
tion ;  purify  and  search  me,  oh  Lord,  and  if  there  be  any 
wicked  way  in  me,  do  thou  it  away. 

My  dear  brother  Samuel  and  wife  are  now  on  a  visit  to 
their  relatives  and  Friends  in  this  neighborhood.  Great 
are,  and  have  been,  my  desires  for  this  dear  brother,  that 
the  Lord  would  bring  him  to  heart-felt  sorrow  and  repent- 
ance before  he  is  taken  out  of  this  world.  Oh,  heavenly 
Father,  be  graciously  pleased  for  thy  mercy's  sake  to  humble 
and  contrite  his  heart  before  thee,  that  his  sins  may  all  go 
beforehand  to  judgment,  and  that  he  may  be  ready  when 
thou  callest  him  hence,  to  join  the  heavenly  host,  in  ascrib- 
ing glory,  honor,  thanksgiving  and  high  renown  unto  thee 
and  the  Sou  of  thy  love  forever.  Amen. 

Same  date. — I  have  been  reading  the  Memoir  of  Thomas 
Kite.  How  sweetly  he  passed  out  of  this  world.  I  remem- 
ber this  dear  Friend  when  he  attended  Ohio  Yearly  Meeting 
in  1836.  It  was  about  the  time  of  the  apostasy  of  Elisha 


354  .JOURNAL    OF  [1884. 

Bates,  and  many  hearts  among  the  young,  as  well  as  those 
more  advanced  in  years,  were  greatly  affected  by  this  unex- 
pected and  mournful  event.  Thomas  Kite,  during  the  Yearly 
Meeting,  visited  women's  meeting,  and  had  a  powerful  and 
weighty  testimony,  calculated  to  soothe  and  comfort  our 
hearts,  and  to  awaken  us  to  a  sight  and  sense  of  the  indis- 
pensable necessity  of  keeping  the  eye  to  the  Master,  instead 
of  the  servant,  in  order  for  our  establishment  and  settlement 
in  the  Truth. 

He  set  forth  in  a  very  clear  and  impressive  manner,  the 
fallen,  dead  and  degenerate  state  of  man  by  nature,  and 
that  nothing  but  keeping  to  the  light,  grace  and  Truth  in 
the  heart,  can  preserve  him  one  moment  from  sin  and  trans- 
gression, no  matter  how  highly  he  may  have  been  favored 
as  a  gospel  minister,  and  that  all  his  natural  endowments 
and  literary  attainments  must  become  subservient  to  the 
law  of  the  spirit  of  life  in  Christ  Jesus,  if  he  be  a  true  min- 
ister of  the  gospel.  This  and  much  more  of  like  import, 
showing  upon  whom  the  dependence  of  ministers  and  hear- 
ers must  be,  in  order  to  maintain  the  unity  of  the  spirit  in 
the  bond  of  peace,  fell  from  the  lips  of  Thomas  Kite  at  that 
time,  and  made  an  impression  on  my  youthful  heart  never 
to  be  erased ;  so  that  I  have  often  felt  the  tribute  of  grati- 
tude to  arise  to  the  Giver  of  every  good  and  perfect  gift, 
when  I  have  thought  of  this  man,  though  I  never  had  the 
privilege  of  speaking  to  him. 

Ninth  Month  13th,  1884. — I  returned  a  few  weeks  since 
from  a  visit  to  the  meetings  of  Salem  Quarterly  Meeting, 
having  previously  visited  the  meetings  within  the  limits  of 
Stillwater  and  Pennsville  Quarters.  During  my  visit  to 
these  meetings  I  had  many  religious  opportunities  in  fami- 
lies, and  with  individuals,  and  the  Lord  was  graciously 
pleased  to  be  with  me,  often  to  my  admiration  ;  showing  me 


1884.]  ANN     BRANSON.  355 

from  day  to  day  my  stepping-stones,  and  strengthening  me 
in  mind  and  body  to  perform  that  which  I  believed  to  be 
required.  Blessed  be  his  name. 

Many  and  deep  were  the  baptisms  through  which  I  was 
permitted  to  pass  for  my  own  sake,  and  for  that  of  others ; 
but  as  I  kept  to  that  grain  of  living  faith  mercifully  vouch- 
safed, I  was  enabled  to  pass  along  wearing  the  sackcloth 
inwardly,  and  not  appearing  unto  men  to  fast.  I  sat  three 
meetings  in  silence  at  Salem,  except  a  few  words  in  their 
Monthly  Meeting  to  one  of  the  answers  to  the  Queries.  But 
in  the  Quarterly  Meeting  I  had  considerable  service.  The 
public  meeting  was  very  large,  and  I  believed  it  right  to 
quote  from  the  ninth  chapter  of  Jeremiah,  the  17th,  18th, 
19th  and  22nd  verses.  I  said  the  last  verse  quoted  was  re- 
markably verified  during  the  late  civil  war,  and  yet  as  a 
nation  we  are  not  humbled;  we  are  proud,  haughty  and 
aspiring  ;  professing  Christians  are  not  humbled.  We  are 
called  to  humble  ourselves  as  in  dust  and  ashes  before  the 
Lord,  that  our  spiritual  life  may  be  given  us  for  a  prey. 
This  and  more  on  this  wise,  I  had  to  proclaim  amongst  them 
before  the  shutters  were  closed. 

On  First-day  after  Quarterly  Meeting,  again  attended 
Salem  Meeting,  and  my  mouth  was  opened  amongst  them. 
I  had  to  refer  to  the  apostle's  declaration  to  some  who  pro- 
fessed the  Christian  religion,  but  did  not  walk  answerable 
to  their  profession,  which  called  forth  this  striking  language 
— "  The  name  of  God  is  blasphemed  among  the  Gentiles 
through  you."  In  this  day,  when  infidelity  is  increasing  to 
such  an  alarming  extent,  those  who  are  professing  the  Chris- 
tian religion  have  special  need  to  examine  whether  they  are 
walking  consistent  with  their  profession  or  casting  stumbling- 
blocks  in  the  way  of  others,  giving  occasion  for  the  Truth 
as  it  is  in  Jesus  to  be  evil  spoken  of.  Practical  Christianity 


356  JOURNAL    OF  [1885. 

appears  to  me  to  be  at  a  very  low  ebb  in  many  places,  and 
I  verily  believe  it  might  be  said  in  this  day,  that  the  name 
of  Christ  is  blasphemed  through  the  ungodly  life  and  dis- 
orderly walking  of  many  highly  professing  Christians.  Very 
deep  and  painful  were  my  exercises  at  Salem,  as  well  as  at 
other  places,  in  consideration  of  the  state  of  things  amongst 
us  as  a  people,  and  the  state  of  Christianity  in  general. 

"  Let  not  the  wise  man  glory  in  his  wisdom,  neither  let 
the  mighty  man  glory  in  his  might,  let  not  the  rich  man 
glory  in  his  riches ;  but  let  him  that  glorieth,  glory  in  this, 
that  he  understandeth  and  knoweth  me,  that  I  am  the  Lord, 
which  exercise  loving  kindness,  judgment  and  righteousness 
in  the  earth  ;  for  in  these  things  I  delight,  saith  the  Lord." 

Tenth  Month  19th. — Attended  the  funeral  of  my  beloved 
cousin,  Elizabeth  Smith,  relict  of  the  late  Samuel  Smith. 
She  was  in  the  ninety-second  year  of  her  age.  Her  religious 
sensibility  outlived  the  loss  of  almost  every  natural  faculty 
of  the  mind.  She  had  been  a  practical  Christian  from  her 
youth,  and  the  Lord  was  pleased  to  manifest  his  loving 
kindness  and  tender  mercies  towards  her  in  the  decline  of 
life  ;  when  her  children  and  her  friends  had  become  stran- 
gers to  her,  giving  her  strength  of  mind  and  body  to  praise 
his  Holy  Name  in  the  midst  of  affliction  and  privations.  She 
often  repeated  these  lines — 

Thy  name,  oh  God,  be  blessed, 
Thy  goodness  be  adored. 
My  soul  has  been  distressed, 
But  thou  hast  peace  restored. 

Fifth  Month  2nd,  1885. — Low  in  mind  on  various  ac- 
counts, but  more  especially  on  account  of  the  backslidden 
state  of  our  religious  Society,  and  the  apathy  of  mind  that 
appears  to  prevail  with  many  relative  to  our  situation.  The 
winter  just  past  has  been  one  of  much  bodily  suffering, 


1885.]  ANN     BRANSON.  357 

weakness  and  debility ;  and  strong  cries  and  earnest  peti- 
tions to  our  Father  in  heaven,  have  been  raised  in  my  heart, 
for  faith  and  patience  to  endure  what  He  saw  meet  to  dis- 
pense; and  I  think  I  feel  humbly  thankful  for  the  relief 
recently  witnessed  from  severe  pain.  May  my  lamp  be  sup- 
plied with  oil  when  the  midnight  cry  is  heard.  This  is  my 
greatest  desire  for  myself  and  for  others. 

Sixth  Month  8th. — Last  night,  after  retiring  to  bed,  my 
mind  became  absorbed  in  thought  and  meditation,  relative 
to  my  own  spiritual  condition  and  the  state,  as  it  appears  to 
me,  of  our  poor  backslidden  Society.  Oh,  how  benumbed 
and  destitute  of  spiritual  life  we  seem  to  be.  Whilst  mourn- 
ing on  account  of  this  condition,  a  desire  was  begotten  in 
my  heart,  yes,  I  might  say,  a  fervent  prayer,  that  the  Lord 
Jesus  might  sit  as  a  refiner  with  fire,  and  as  a  fuller  with 
soap,  in  the  temple  of  my  heart,  and  purge  out  everything 
that  adds  to  this  benumbed  and  lifeless  condition,  that  a  ray 
of  Divine  light  and  life  might  again  be  experienced.  It 
then  came  into  my  heart  to  read  the  fourth  Psalm,  which 
might  throw  some  light  upon  my  disconsolate  condition  ; 
and  had  it  been  suitable,  I  would  have  arisen  from  my  bed 
and  perused  it,  having  no  idea  what  it  contained.  But  on 
reading  it  this  morning,  my  spirit  was  somewhat  strength- 
ened, and  encouraged  by  a  revival  of  hope,  that  I  might  see 
brighter  and  better  days. 

I  can  truly  say,  that  the  Lord  hath  heard  my  prayers 
and  delivered  me  out  of  many  distresses  and  temptations  in 
days  and  years  that  are  past ;  and  shall  I  distrust  his  mercy 
and  his  power  now  in  old  age?  Oh  no!  let  me  never  cast 
away  my  confidence  in  thee,  oh,  my  God,  though  unworthy 
of  the  very  least  of  thy  mercies. 

Seventh  Month  2nd. — I  feel  it  a  great  favor  to  be  relieved 
from  severe  pain,  with  which  I  have  been  suffering  for  sev- 


358  JOURNAL     OF  [1885. 

eral  days  past.  Oh,  for  a  grateful  heart  for  this  and  all  other 
blessings.  Previous  to  this  attack  of  neuralgia,  I  spent 
some  days  at  Guernsey,  especially  on  account  of  my  dear 
cousin,  Maria  Cope,  who  is  suffering  with  a  cancer,  and  no 
hope  of  relief  only  through  death,  or  at  least  it  appears  so. 

Eighth  Month  22nd. — I  have  recently  made  a  visit  to 
my  aged  and  well  beloved  friend,  Hannah  Warrington,  of 
Moorestown,  N.  J.  To  me  it  was  a  very  precious  visit. 
Although  I  had  repeatedly  heard,  that  her  intellectual 
faculties  remained  very  bright,  and  her  spiritual  vision 
clear  and  unclouded,  at  the  advanced  age  to  which  she  had 
attained,  being  now  in  the  ninety-third  year  of  her  age,  yet 
I  could  not  have  fully  understood  the  reality  had  I  not 
visited  her,  so  late  in  life. 

Her  memory  of  past  and  present  events,  and  her  capacity 
for  embracing,  and  conversing  upon  subjects  of  deep  interest 
both  to  old  and  young,  and  the  ease  and  freedom  with  which 
she  draws  from  the  Treasury  with  which  she  is  intrusted  by 
our  divine  Lord  and  Lawgiver,  things  both  new  and  old, 
to  interest  and  instruct  her  fellow  pilgrims,  is  indeed  won- 
derful. Her  voice  is  clear  and  pleasant,  her  articulation 
distinct,  and  the  whole  mind  apparently  as  strong  and  vigor- 
ous as  in  meridian  age,  at  least  it  appeared  so  to  me  and 
others  who  had  the  privilege  of  being  with  her  in  our  late 
visit.  She  has  long  been  a  scholar  in  the  school  of  Christ, 
and  her  storehouse  of  valuables,  derived  from  that  source  is 
extensive,  and  her  ability  to  impart  instruction  to  others, 
great.  "  Blessed  is  the  man  that  trusteth  in  the  Lord,  and 
whose  hope  the  Lord  is ;  for  he  shall  be  as  a  tree  planted 
by  the  waters,  and  that  spreadeth  out  her  roots  by  the  river, 
and  shall  not  see  when  heat  cometh,  but  her  leaf  shall  be 
green:  and  shall  not  be  careful  in  the  year  of  drought, 
neither  shall  cease  from  yielding  fruit." 


1885.]  ANN     BRANSON.  359 

Whilst  on  this  visit  I  attended  three  meetings  at  Moores- 
town.  In  their  week-day  meeting,  the  first  I  attended,  I 
felt  it  required  of  me  to  revive  this  Scripture — "  Oh  earth, 
earth,  earth,  hear  the  word  of  the  Lord."  I  said  that  I  had 
greatly  desired  to  be  preserved  from  arraigning  any  one  for 
accusation,  or  condemnation,  but  felt  that  some  present  had 
need  to  consider  the  many  warnings,  calls,  and  invitations 
given  them  to  become  loosened  from  the  things  of  the  world, 
and  to  have  their  hearts  and  affections  set  on  things  above, 
not  knowing  the  day  nor  the  hour  when  the  summons  of 
death  would  come ;  some  of  these  had  felt  the  necessity  of 
becoming  extricated  from  the  love  of  the  world,  but  had  not 
yielded  obedience  to  what  they  knew  to  be  required,  and 
the  call  was  still  extended,  "  Oh,  earth,  earth,  earth,  hear 
the  word  of  the  Lord."  My  communication  was  short,  but 
yielded  peace. 

I  also  attended  Moorestown  Meeting  on  the  First-day 
following.  On  Seventh-day  evening,  previous  to  this  meet- 
ing, an  elder  called  to  see  me,  and  in  the  presence  of  several 
others,  said  to  me,  that  he  hoped  if  I  had  anything  for  the 
young  people  I  would  be  faithful  and  let  them  have  it,  that 
they  were  not  as  willing  to  take  up  the  cross  as  would  be 
desirable,  and  he  sometimes  feared  their  older  Friends  had 
not  patience  enough  with  them,  &c.  I  was  surprised,  but 
held  my  peace :  I  thought,  if  he  wanted  to  close  up  my  way 
in  that  meeting  amongst  old  and  young,  that  he  could  not 
have  taken  more  efficient  measures  to  do  so;  but  I  do  not 
suppose  that  was  his  intention,  yet  I  concluded  that  he 
surely  lacked  that  discretion  which  should  characterize  the 
movements  of  a  wise  and  discreet  elder,  at  least  in  the  present 
case,  I  being  a  stranger  to  nearly  every  young  person  in  that 
meeting,  and  they  to  me ;  it  was  surely  premature  for  any 
one  to  tell  me  what,  or  propose  what  I  should  say  to  them. 


360  JOURNAL     OF  [1885. 

When  meeting-time  came,  I  was  weighed  down  with  ex- 
ercise, but  was  favored  to  keep  my  head  above  the  waves. 
At  ten  o'clock  the  meeting  assembled,  and  was  quite  a  large 
gathering.  Soon  after  the  meeting  settled  into  silence  my 
mind  became  impressed  with  this  language  of  the  prophet 
Isaiah,  which  I  afterwards  quoted:  "There  shall  be  upon 
every  high  mountain,  and  upon  every  high  hill,  rivers  and 
streams  of  waters  in  the  day  of  the  great  slaughter,  when 
the  towers  fall.  Moreover,  the  light  of  the  moon  shall  be 
as  the  light  of  the  sun,  and  the  light  of  the  sun  shall  be  as 
seven  fold,  as  the  light  of  seven  days,  in  the  day  that  the 
Lord  bindeth  up  the  breach  of  his  people,  and  healeth  the 
stroke  of  their  wound."  I  said  there  were  those  who  often 
desired  to  feel  more  of  the  incomes  of  Divine  love  and  con- 
solation flowing  through  their  hearts,  such  as  they  believed 
the  true  Christian,  the  humble  followers  of  Christ  experi- 
enced, and  in  order  to  realize  this,  they  must  know  the 
towers  to  fall,  the  first  Adam  slain,  which  is  of  the  earth, 
earthy ;  all  that  opposes  the  coming  and  setting  up  of  the 
Redeemer's  kingdom  in  the  heart,  brought  down,  and  rooted 
out,  and  the  mountain  of  the  Lord's  house,  established  in 
the  top  of  the  mountains,  and  exalted  above  the  hills ;  that 
of  having  everything  removed  which  prevents  the  circula- 
tion of  Divine  life  in  the  temple  of  the  heart,  is  a  great  and 
glorious  work ;  but  indispensably  requisite  in  order  that  we 
may  realize  the  fulfilment  of  this  beautiful,  figurative  lan- 
guage of  the  prophet. 

On  Third-day  following,  the  Monthly  Meeting  of  Chester, 
held  at  Moorestown,  occurred,  which  I  attended,  and  had 
some  close  work  amongst  them.  I  then  felt  my  mind  drawn 
out  towards  the  young  and  youngish  members  present,  en- 
couraging them  to  unreserved  dedication  to  the  will  of  the 
Lord — to  keep  their  eyes  single  to  Him  and  they  would  be 


1886.]  ANN    BRANSON.  361 

preserved  from  stumbling  at  the  stumbling-blocks  cast  in 
their  way — they  had  many  counsellors,  but  few  fathers  and 
mothers — those  who  like  Caleb  and  Joshua,  wholly  follow 
the  Lord.  There  were  those  present  in  the  station  of  coun- 
sellors who  had  never  known  the  high  places  taken  away. 

Third  Month  23rd,  1886.— On  the  22nd  of  First  Month 
last,  my  beloved  brother,  Isaiah  Branson,  departed  this  life, 
aged  eighty-seven  years,  lacking  one  month  and  three  days. 
His  physicians  say  that  he  died  without  any  organic  disease  ; 
as  ripe  fruit  drops  from  the  tree  in  autumn.  He  was  attacked 
with  slight  spasms  occasioned  by  stagnation  of  the  blood  at 
the  base  of  the  brain.  He  retained  his  mental  faculties  ad- 
mirably, and  his  children  represent  his  end  to  have  been 
very  sweet  and  peaceful ;  and  I  humbly  trust,  that  through 
the  mercy  of  God  in  Christ  Jesus,  he  is  amongst  the  ran- 
somed and  redeemed  of  the  Lord. 

On  the  16th  inst.,  I  attended  the  funeral  of  my  brother- 
in-law,  Jesse  Roberts,  who  died  of  pneumonia,  after  one 
week's  illness,  in  the  eighty-seventh  year  of  his  age.  He  was 
sensible  during  his  illness,  and  fully  resigned  to  the  will  of 
the  Lord ;  appearing  to  have  no  prospect,  nor  any  wish  to 
recover.  He  was  a  man  of  sound,  discreet  judgment,  whose 
long  life  was  one  of  practical  Christianity,  and  this  testi- 
mony concerning  him  was  publicly  borne  at  his  funeral,  to 
which  many  no  doubt  set  their  seals.  "  Blessed  are  the 
dead,  that  die  in  the  Lord,  yea,  saith  the  Spirit,  that  they 
may  rest  from  their  labors  and  their  works  do  follow  them." 

Fifth  Month  31st. — I  left  home  with  the  unity  of  the 
Monthly  and  Quarterly  Meetings,  to  make  a  religious  visit 
to  the  Meetings  of  Canada  Yearly  Meeting,  held  at  Picker- 
ing, and  was  accompanied  by  my  kind  friends  and  relatives, 
Jacob  Holloway  and  Abigail  Sears.  We  visited  most  of  the 
meetings,  and  attended  the  Yearly  Meeting  also.  Although 
24 


362  JOURNAL    OF  [1886. 

I  had  liberty  to  appoint  meetings  amongst  those  not  in  mem- 
bership with  Friends,  yet  after  getting  into  that  province 
I  felt  that  my  mission  there  was  to  be  especially  confined  to 
Friends,  and  this  language  was  again  and  again  revived : 
"  Into  any  of  the  cities  of  the  Samaritans  enter  ye  not ;  but 
go  rather  to  the  lost  sheep  of  the  house  of  Israel ; "  and  when 
appointing  meetings  amongst  Friends,  I  felt  no  liberty  to 
extend  the  invitation  to  others.  My  business  appeared  to  be 
to  encourage  Friends  to  build  over  against  their  own  houses, 
and  thus  to  raise  a  practical  standard  in  support  of  primi- 
tive Christianity.  All  classes  were  invited  to  labor  for  the 
restoration  of  the  waste  places  of  our  Zion,  that  the  Lord 
might  again  beautify  his  sanctuary  and  make  the  place  of 
his  feet  glorious  amongst  this  people,  as  in  the  rise  of  the 
Society. 

Whilst  out  on  this  visit  I  kept  no  notes,  not  being  able  to 
write,  having  a  hard  cough,  and  being  quite  feeble  most  of 
the  time.  But  I  think  it  right  to  say,  that  the  Shepherd  of 
Israel  was  very  near,  and  kept  my  head  above  the  waves 
and  billows,  which  often  threatened  to  overwhelm.  And  I 
can  say,  as  at  other  times,  "Is  anything  too  hard  for  the 
Lord  God  to  perform  ?  Trust  in  Him,  Oh  my  soul,  in  heights 
and  in  depths,  for  his  mercy  endureth  forever." 

I  was  favored  to  return  from  this  visit  with  a  peaceful 
mind,  having  been  absent  from  home  just  twenty-nine  days. 
On  reaching  home  I  found  my  beloved  nephew,  Benjamin 
Branson,  very  low  with  pulmonary  consumption,  and  I  had 
the  satisfaction  of  spending  a  few  days  with  him  before  his 
death,  and  to  witness  his  peaceful  and  quiet  resignation  to 
the  will  of  the  Lord ;  and  to  hear  him  express,  that  he  felt 
no  burden  or  condemnation  resting  upon  him  at  that  solemn 
hour,  and  my  own  feelings  being  very  comfortable  concern- 


1886.]  ANN     BRANSON.  363 

ing  his  preparation  for  the  final  change,  for  this  favor  I  was 
made  truly  thankful. 

Eighth  Month  22nd. — I  have  been  at  home  several  weeks, 
and  no  way  has  yet  opened  for  the  further  accomplishment 
of  the  visit,  for  which  I  was  liberated  in  the  Fifth  Month 
last,  having  had  a  severe  turn  of  illness  since  my  return 
from  Canada.  I  am  still  feeble,  yet  if  the  way  opened  for 
going  West,  as  my  prospect  included  the  meetings  of  the 
Western  Yearly  Meeting,  I  should  not  hesitate  on  account 
of  my  health.  I  desire  to  keep  my  eye  single  to  the  Head 
of  the  Church,  that  I  may  not  miss  the  right  time  for  mov- 
ing forward  in  this  important  embassy. 

Tenth  Month  llth. — I  attended  our  late  Yearly  Meeting 
under  much  bodily  weakness.  No  way  as  yet  opens  for  the 
prosecution  of  my  Western  visit ;  Oh,  that  I  may  be  kept 
in  the  true  faith  and  patience,  not  going  before  nor  lagging 
behind  my  true  Guide. 

Eleventh  Month  5th. — Since  Yearly  Meeting  I  have  at- 
tended the  funeral  of  two  of  my  relatives,  both  in  meridian 
age,  and  have  cause  to  believe  that  they  are  both  safely 
landed ;  why  should  we  weep  for  such  ?  I  feel  more  like 
rejoicing  than  weeping.  The  conflicts  of  earth  with  them 
are  over,  and  that  joy  which  is  unspeakable  and  full  of 
glory,  inherited.  One  of  those  removed  was  my  beloved 
cousin,  Martha  A.  Wilson ;  her  life  was  that  of  a  practical 
Christian,  and  her  death  a  triumphant  one.  "  Weep  not 
for  me,  but  weep  for  yourselves  and  your  children,"  was  the 
language  I  felt  it  right  to  quote  at  her  funeral,  with  some 
accompanying  remarks.  The  other  individual  was  one  who 
had  much  to  overcome,  and  had  overcome  much  by  attend- 
ing to  the  witness  for  Truth  in  her  heart,  and  though  sin 
abounded,  grace  did  much  more  abound,  and  she  was  made 
more  than  conqueror  over  the  enemies  of  her  own  house- 


364  JOURNAL    OF  [1887. 

hold  through  the  mercy  of  God  in  Christ  Jesus.  May  none 
despair  of  that  help  which  is  richly  in  store  for  us,  whilst 
the  day  of  mercy  lasts,  and  will,  if  we  lay  hold  of  it,  redeem 
us  from  all  that  stands  in  our  way  of  acceptance  with  the 
Beloved  of  souls. 

24th. — I  was  much  exercised  in  meeting  to-day.  Some 
passages  of  Scripture  and  some  considerations  in  regard  to 
true  and  acceptable  worship  pressed  weightily  upon  my 
mind,  but  my  secret  petition  was,  that  I  might  be  pre- 
served from  speaking  a  word  unbidden,  and  as  I  kept  my 
eye  to  the  Master,  I  did  not  feel  the  command  to  hand  forth 
anything  to  those  present,  though  several  were  at  meeting 
who  were  not  members,  and  perhaps  some  who  never  at- 
tended a  Friends'  Meeting  before.  But  I  felt  thankful  that 
I  was  favored  to  keep  under  my  exercise  without  stepping 
forward  unbidden  in  the  ministry.  Oh  what  a  close  watch 
it  takes  neither  to  go  before,  nor  lag  behind  the  True  Guide. 

First  Month  22nd,  1887.— This  has  been  a  very  mild 
and  beautiful  winter  day,  62°  above  zero ;  I  walked  out  on 
the  ground;  my  health  this  winter  thus  far  very  poor; 
heart  disease  often  threatening  me  with  a  sudden  termina- 
tion of  my  earthly  pilgrimage ;  but  my  greatest  desire  is  to 
be  ready  for  the  final  summons. 

Third  Month  14th. — The  winter  just  passed  has  been 
mild  and  open  compared  with  the  two  preceding  ones.  My 
health  throughout  has  been  very  poor,  great  bodily  weak- 
ness and  at  times  severe  pain,  has  been  my  experience ; 
this  accompanied  with  a  feeling  of  great  poverty  of  spirit, 
has  been  a  trial  of  faith  and  patience,  but  doubtless  dis- 
pensed for  my  good.  Never  did  my  weakness  and  unwor- 
thiness  stare  me  in  the  face  more  continually  and  impres- 
sively than  for  some  months  past,  yet  the  ability  has  been 
afforded  to  intercede  for  mercy,  which  is  certainly  a  great 


1887.]  ANN     BRANSON.  365 

favor ;  yes,  by  day  and  by  night  has  this  petition  been 
raised.  Have  mercy,  Oh  Lord,  upon  me,  and  prepare  me 
for  the  final  reckoning,  that  I  may  not  be  cast  off  on  the 
left  hand. 

On  the  evening  of  the  12th  inst.,  this  language  was  im- 
pressively and  sweetly  brought  to  remembrance :  "  Trust  in 
the  Lord,  wait  patiently  for  Him,  and  he  shall  strengthen 
thine  heart;  yea,  I  say,  trust  in  the  Lord." 

On  the  13th  attended  our  meeting,  and  had  to  encourage 
those  present  to  keep  an  ear  open  to  hear  what  the  Spirit 
saith  unto  the  churches,  that  a  true  sense  of  their  spiritual 
condition  might  be  given  them,  and  the  things  few  or  many 
standing  in  their  way  of  acceptance  with  the  Lord  removed, 
that  the  candlestick  might  not  be  removed  out  of  its  place, 
or  to  this  effect.  This  short  testimony  afforded  peace,  and 
I  spent  the  afternoon  quietly  and  comfortably  in  mind,  yet 
quite  weak  in  body. 

Sixth  Month  16th. — Since  my  last  entry  I  have  passed 
through  much  bodily  suffering  and  weakness  ;  but  through 
all,  the  sustaining  arm  of  the  Lord  hath  been  underneath, 
and  I  have  had  at  times  to  proclaim  his  goodness  and 
mercy  in  the  assemblies  of  the  people,  in  religious  meet- 
ings, and  at  funerals,  &c.  Oh,  the  unworthiness  and  in- 
competency  I  feel  for  such  engagements,  but  obedience  to 
his  call  and  commandments  has  brought  peace  and  quiet- 
ness. 

Seventh  Month  20th. — Attended  the  funeral  of  Stephen 
Hobson,  a  friend  and  merchant  residing  in  our  town.  He 
was  the  son  of  a  worthy  elder,  to  whom  I  was  much  attached. 
I  visited  him  a  few  days  before  his  death,  and  was  led  to 
supplicate  at  his  bedside,  that  his  affliction  might  be  sancti- 
fied to  him  and  to  his  family  and  friends,  and  that  the  vital 
spark  might  not  become  extinct  before  a  preparation  for 


366  JOURNAL     OF  [1887. 

the  solemn  change  was  experienced.  I  told  him  we  had  a 
merciful  High  Priest,  and  I  believed  if  he  kept  his  eye 
single  he  would  be  enabled  to  do  all  the  Lord  required  of 
him.  He  twice  expressed  that  he  was  glad  I  came,  and 
soon  after  appeared  near  his  end. 

He  had  much  to  say  by  way  of  counsel  and  exhortation 
to  his  family,  and  afterwards  thanked  the  Lord  that  he  had 
been  favored  and  strengthened  to  relieve  his  mind,  express- 
ing also  that  he  was  favored  with  an  evidence  of  acceptance. 
The  funeral  was  very  large,  and  I  had  to  call  upon  those 
present  to  be  in  earnest  to  make  their  calling  and  election 
sure,  setting  forth  the  necessity  of  yielding  obedience  to  the 
Holy  Spirit  in  the  temple  of  our  hearts,  in  order  that  we 
might  be  such  as  the  Lord  Jesus  would  own  before  his 
Father  and  the  holy  angels.  Great  bodily  weakness  at- 
tends me,  but  when  the  word  of  command  is  given  to  step 
forth  in  the  service  of  my  Divine  Lord  and  Master,  I  dare 
not  shrink  or  give  back. 

Tenth  Month  6th. — At  our  last  Monthly  Meeting  I  re- 
turned the  Minute  granted  me  more  than  a  year  ago  for 
religious  service  in  the  limits  of  Western  Yearly  Meeting, 
having  visited  nearly  all  the  meetings  composing  it,  and 
attended  the  Yearly  Meeting  held  last  month ;  and  I  may 
acknowledge  the  Lord  was  with  me,  and  strengthened  me 
in  body  and  mind  to  perform  the  service  required,  in  a 
good  degree,  to  the  relief  of  my  mind,  yet  many  bitter  cups 
were  dispensed  in  view  of  the  degeneracy  from  primitive 
simplicity  still  apparent  amongst  us  as  a  religious  society. 
Oh  the  mixture  there,  and  elsewhere,  with  the  spirit  of  the 
world.  I  had  to  tell  Friends  that  the  shaking  and  sifting 
which  has  been  going  on  for  years  in  our  religious  Society 
was  not  over.  An  uncompromising  spirit  was  called  for  by 
the  Head  of  the  Church  on  the  part  of  Friends,  in  support  of 


1887.]  ANN    BRANSON.  367 

the  principles  and  testimonies,  given  us  to  bear,  and  we  would 
be  sifted  and  tried  until  we  become  more  and  more  the  people 
we  profess  to  be.  A  very  plain  testimony  was  given  me  to 
bear  in  the  meeting  of  ministers  and  elders,  in  relation  to 
the  ministry  and  the  necessity  of  knowing  all  our  springs  to 
be  in  the  Lord.  I  told  them  that  I  had  been  pained  with 
some  long  communications  in  testimony  and  supplication 
which  I  had  witnessed  since  being  amongst  them.  I  quoted 
William  Penn's  language,  viz :  "  I  am  concerned  above  all 
for  public  brethren."  And  again  in  reference  to  the  min- 
istry, he  says,  "  Ever  so  little  without  the  life  is  too  much ; 
but  much  is  not  too  much  with  the  life."  I  exhorted  elders 
to  get  down  deep  where  they  could  discern  what  was  of  and 
from  the  Lord,  and  what  was  not,  that  they  might  know 
what  to  encourage,  and  what  to  discourage. 

Eleventh  Month  30th. — I  am  confined  at  home  by  bodily 
indisposition,  while  the  rest  of  the  family  are  at  meeting. 
It  looks  as  if  my  time  for  attending  meeting  was  nearly  over. 
Oh  that  I  may  be  prepared  for  the  solemn  summons,  when- 
ever and  in  whatever  way  it  may  come  ;  this  is  my  hourly 
concern.  I  have  suffered  much  during  the  past  week,  and 
have  felt  fearful  lest  I  should  lose  my  rational  faculties  in 
consequence  of  this  severe  pain  in  my  head,  but  I  do  earn- 
estly crave  that  I  may  be  favored  to  retain  my  senses,  what- 
ever I  may  have  to  suffer. 

Twelfth  Month  22nd. — This  is  my  eightieth  birthday ;  it 
is  wonderful  indeed  that  I  have  lived  to  this  late  period. 
Oh  Lord !  be  pleased  to  prepare  me  for  the  midnight  cry, 
no  matter  what  it  may  cost  me.  Amen  and  amen. 

Hail  thou  my  eightieth  birth-day, 
The  gift  of  God  to  me. 
Clothed  in  a  shining  raiment 
Thy  early  morn  I  see. 


368  JOURNAL     OF  [1888. 

But  still  thou  looks  more  solemn 
Than  birth-days  of  the  past ; 
Perhaps  an  indication 
That  thou  mayest  be  my  last. 

Thy  noontide  cold  and  stormy 
Will  soon  have  passed  away, 
But  all  is  wisely  ordered 
By  Him  who  rules  the  day. 

Farewell  my  eightieth  birth-day, 
Thy  race  is  nearly  run, 
Whilst  faith  and  hope  and  mercy 
Attend  thy  setting  sun. 

Farewell  now  and  forever, 
We  part  to  meet  no  more, 
Nor  would  I  ask  another 
This  side  the  Heavenly  shore. 

I  would  not  ask  another, 
But  may  thy  will  be  done 
In  me,  and  by  and  through  me, 
Thou  just  and  Holy  One. 

First  Month  14th,  1888.— Oh  Christendom !  Christendom ! 
what  wilt  thou  do  when  the  anger  of  the  Lord  is  poured  out 
upon  thee  in  fury  and  in  furious  rebukes,  because  of  thy 
pride  and  the  haughtiness  of  thine  heart? 

Third  Month  6th. — Bless  the  Lord,  oh  my  soul,  who  has 
been  with  thee  in  the  depths  of  affliction. 

21st. — I  arn  now  able  to  walk  about  the  house,  after  being 
confined  most  of  the  winter  ;  have  been  out  at  meeting  once. 
Being  raised  up  again  from  the  depths  of  affliction  is  indeed 
the  Lord's  doings,  and  marvellous  in  mine  eyes,  and  I  think 
it  is  marvellous  in  the  eyes  of  those  who  have  waited  on  me 
during  this  affliction,  both  Friends  and  physicains.  Oh,  thou 
Searcher  of  hearts,  enable  me  to  be  faithful  to  all  thy  requir- 
ings,  neither  going  before  nor  lagging  behind  the  true  Guide. 


1888.]  ANN     BKANSON.  369 


CHAPTER  XIII. 

PAID  A  RELIGIOUS  VISIT  TO  THE  YEARLY  MEETING  OF  THE  SMALLER  BODY 
IN  NEW  ENGLAND,  AND  MOST  OF  ITS  BRANCHES  —  ATTENDED  SEVERAL 
MEETINGS  IN  PHILADELPHIA  AND  THEREABOUTS,  ON  HER  WAY  HOME — 
A  PLAIN  AND  SEARCHING  TESTIMONY  AT  ARCH  STREET  MONTHLY  MEET- 
ING— CONFINEMENT  BY  INDISPOSITION — A  RELIGIOUS  VISIT  TO  THE  MEET- 
INGS CONSTITUTING  SALEM  QUARTER — HOME  EXERCISES,  AND  RELIGIOUS 

SERVICE,  WHEN  PHYSICALLY  ABLE,  WITHIN  THE  LIMITS  OF  HER  OWN 
QUARTERLY  MEETING — PERMANENTLY  DECLINING  ILLNESS,  AND  SPIRIT- 
UAL EXERCISES  OF  HER  LAST  DAYS. 

Sixth  Month  5th. — With  Minutes  of  unity  and  approba- 
tion from  the  Monthly  and  Quarterly  Meetings,  I  left  home 
accompanied  by  my  cousins,  Jacob  Holloway  and  Abigail 
Sears,  for  the  Yearly  Meeting  of  New  England. 

Our  friends,  Joseph  S.  Elkinton  and  wife,  of  Philadel- 
phia, having  previously  given  us  a  kind  invitation  to  call 
with  them  on  our  way  farther  east,  and  to  home  with  them 
during  our  visit  in  the  city,  we  accepted  the  invitation  and 
were  very  kindly  treated ;  Joseph  accompanying  us  during 
our  visit  within  their  limits,  which  we  esteemed  a  special 
favor. 

We  arrived  at  Westerly,  Rhode  Island,  where  New  Eng- 
land Yearly  Meeting  is  held  (Smaller  Body),  on  the  morn- 
ing of  the  7th  inst.,  and  were  conducted  to  the  house  of 
Anna  A.  Foster,  widow  of  the  late  Ethan  Foster,  where  we 
were  most  kindly  entertained  during  the  time  of  the  Yearly 
Meeting,  and  afterwards  whilst  we  remained  in  their  limits. 
Nine  sittings  of  the  Yearly  Meeting,  including  the  sittings 
of  the  Select  Meeting  and  the  Meeting  for  Sufferings,  closed 
its  session  ;  all  of  which  I  attended. 

That  Yearly  Meeting  has  appointed  some  women  Friends 
members  of  the  Meeting  for  Sufferings.  We  found  a  very 
small  Yearly  Meeting,  yet  were  comforted  in  the  belief  that 


370  JOURNAL    OF  [1888. 

the  Lord  has  a  seed  there,  which  is  precious  in  his  sight. 
My  mission  amongst  them  appeared  to  be,  to  encourage 
Friends  to  rally  to  that  which  gathered  us  to  be  a  people, 
to  the  praise  and  glory  of  God.  The  leadings -and  teach- 
ings of  the  Holy  Spirit,  not  only  gathered  us  to  be  a  people, 
but  also  preserved  our  early  Friends  faithful  in  their  allegi- 
ance to  the  Lord  of  lords,  and  King  of  kings,  amidst  the 
most  cruel  persecutions  inflicted  upon  them  by  their  ene- 
mies. It  matters  not  what  our  trials  and  temptations  may 
be,  inwardly  or  outwardly,  if  we  keep  to  the  leadings  and 
teachings  of  the  Holy  Spirit,  our  spiritual  lives  will  be  given 
us  for  a  prey,  and  we  shall  be  made  more  than  conquerors 
through  Him  that  loved  us,  and  gave  himself  for  us,  Christ 
Jesus  the  righteous. 

It  was  by  keeping  to  the  law  of  the  Lord,  that  Noah, 
Daniel  and  Job  were  preserved  alive  in  the  Truth,  amidst 
the  great  trials,  temptations  and  provings  permitted  to  come 
upon  them  ;  and  if  these  three  men  were  here,  "they  should 
deliver  but  their  own  souls  by  their  righteousness,"  they 
could  save  neither  son  nor  daughter. 

It  was  by  keeping  the  eye  single  to  the  Lord  and  waiting 
upon  Him  for  the  renewal  of  strength,  that  John  Wilbur 
was  enabled  to  endure  a  fight  of  affliction  amongst  false 
brethren,  which  I  believe  has  had  no  parallel  in  the  religious 
Society  of  Friends,  from  its  rise  to  the  present  day,  and  we 
doubt  not  that  he  is  safely  landed  where  the  wicked  cease 
from  troubling,  and  the  weary  are  at  rest,  having  received 
the  end  of  his  faith,  even  the  salvation  of  his  soul,  and  main- 
tained his  allegiance  firm  unto  the  Lord  of  lords,  and  King 
of  kings,  unto  the  end  of  his  days. 

I  exhorted  Friends  to  keep  up  their  meetings,  though 
their  number  in  most  places  is  very  small,  remembering  the 
promise  of  our  Saviour — "Where  two  or  three  are  gathered 


1888.]  ANN     BRANSON.  371 

together  in  my  name,  there  am  I  in  the  midst  of  them."  If 
He  is  in  our  midst  what  can  we  ask  more,  and  without  Him 
what  are  all  things  else  ?  Nothing,  that  will  give  us  any 
comfort  or  consolation.  The  principles  and  testimonies  of 
ancient  Quakerism  are,  as  we  have  heard  declared,  nothing 
more  nor  less  than  primitive  Christianity  revived,  and  we 
cannot  let  fall  any  of  these  precious  principles  and  testimo- 
nies, without  suffering  great  loss  as  individuals,  and  as  a 
Society.  We  have  as  much  need  to  faithfully  support  them 
in  this  day  and  age,  as  at  any  time  since  the  rise  of  the  So- 
ciety. Christendom  and  the  world  at  large  calls  loudly  and 
impressively  for  this  faithfulness  on  the  part  of  Friends. 
"  Watch  ye,  stand  fast  in  the  faith,  quit  you  like  men,  be 
strong."  Put  on  the  whole  armor  of  God,  that  ye  may  be 
able  to  stand,  and  having  done  all,  to  stand.  "Stand  there- 
fore, having  your  loins  girt  about  witlj  Truth,"  and  your 
lamps  burning. 

Thus  I  encouraged  Friends  to  stand  faithful,  believing 
there  was  a  little  remnant  in  those  parts,  who  amidst  all 
the  trials  through  which  they  have  passed,  could  adopt  the 
language — "Doubtless  thou  art  our  Father,  though  Abra- 
ham be  ignorant  of  us,  and  Israel  acknowledge  us  not: 
thou,  oh  Lord,  art  our  Father,  our  Redeemer.''  Yet  there 
were  those  in  this  small  Yearly  Meeting,  who  I  believed 
were  ashamed  of  the  cross  of  Christ.  These  were  exhorted 
to  a  full  surrender  of  the  heart  to  the  Lord,  and  to  bear  in 
mind  the  words  of  our  Saviour  —  "Whosoever  shall  be 
ashamed  of  me  and  of  my  words,  of  him  shall  the  Son  of  man 
be  ashamed  when  He  shall  come  in  his  own  glory,  and  in 
his  Father's,  and  of  the  holy  angels."  We  must  become 
practical  cross-bearing  Christians  if  we  are  owned  of  Christ 
Jesus  when  done  with  this  state  of  probation. 

We  attended  the  meetings  of  that  Yearly  Meeting,  which 


372  JOURNAL     OF  [1888. 

are  regularly  kept  up,  and  visited  most  of  the  families  be- 
longing to  them.  My  mind  was  strongly  attracted  towards 
other  places  where  the  meetings  are  not  regularly  kept  up, 
but  the  way  did  not  open  with  sufficient  clearness  for  me  to 
visit  Friends  in  those  neighborhoods,  hoping  other  messen- 
gers will  be  sent  amongst  them  in  the  Lord's  way  and  time 
to  the  strengthening  of  their  hands  and  hearts  in  every  good 
word  and  work. 

Having  closed  our  visit  in  the  limits  of  this  Yearly  Meet- 
ing, we  left  Westerly  on  the  19th  and  took  the  cars  for  Phila- 
delphia, arriving  there  the  same  evening. 

20th. — Attended  Philadelphia  Monthly  Meeting  for  the 
Western  District,  held  at  Twelfth  Street.  There  were  two 
strangers  present,  ministers  from  Baltimore  Yearly  Meeting, 
who  had  considerable  to  say.  The  woman  minister  sat  in 
the  gallery,  but  made  little  if  any  appearance  of  a  Friend 
in  her  dress.  Though  considerable  time  was  occupied  by 
these  strangers,  yet  I  found  opportunity  to  relieve  my  mind 
in  a  plain  and  clear  testimony,  and  the  Truth  rose  into  do- 
minion over  all  opposition. 

I  arose  with  the  language  of  Solomon — "A  just  weight 
and  balance  are  the  Lord's;  all  the  weights  of  the  bag  are 
his  work."  I  said,  it  is  a  solemn  consideration,  that  if  the 
Lord  turn  the  balance  in  our  favor,  all  the  world  cannot 
turn  it  against  us;  but  if  He  turn  it  against  us,  the  whole 
world  cannot  turn  it  in  our  favor.  How  important  then 
that  we  be  in  earnest  to  have  our  spiritual  accounts  in  readi- 
ness for  the  final  summons,  knowing  judgment  laid  to  the 
line  and  righteousness  to  the  plumb-line  in  the  temple  of 
our  hearts,  being  willing  to  be  searched  with  the  candle  of 
the  Lord,  and  to  have  all  our  deeds  brought  to  the  light, 
and  judged  by  the  light;  as  this  becomes  our  living  and 
heart-felt  concern,  the  prayer  of  our  hearts  will  be  on  this 


1888.]  ANN     BRANSON.  373 

wise — "Search  me,  oh  God,  and  know  my  heart;  try  me, 
and  know  my  thoughts.  And  see  if  there  be  any  wicked 
way  in  me,  and  lead  me  in  the  way  everlasting."  It  mat- 
ters not  how  high  and  holy  our  profession  is,  if  we  are  not 
practical  Christians,  we  are  not  the  disciples  of  Christ,  not 
such  as  He  will  deign  to  own  before  his  Father  and  the  holy 
angels. 

We  must  know  the  baptism  of  the  fire  and  Holy  Ghost 
to  cleanse  our  hearts  from  all  the  dross,  tin  and  reprobate 
silver,  from  all  the  filth  and  defilements  of  the  flesh.  This 
is  the  only'essential  baptism,  that  which  purifies  and  cleanses 
the  heart  from  all  that  the  Lord's  controversy  is  with.  This 
baptism  we  must  experience  if  we  become  the  meek  and 
self-denying  followers  of  Christ  Jesus,  our  crucified,  risen 
and  glorified  Redeemer.  Who  are  those  concerning  whom 
our  Saviour  made  this  impressive  declaration  ?  viz :  "  Many 
will  say  to  me  in  that  day,  Lord,  Lord,  have  we  not  prophe- 
sied in  thy  name,  and  in  thy  name  have  cast  out  devils,  and 
in  thy  name  done  many  wonderful  works?  And  then  will 
I  profess  unto  them,  I  never  knew  you :  depart  from  me  ye 
that  work  iniquity."  Were  not  these  high  professors  of  re- 
ligion boasting  of  what  great  things  they  had  done  in  the 
name  of  Christ?  Calling  Him  Lord,  Lord,  and  yet  He  had 
never  known  them  as  his  humble,  self-denying  followers, 
and  therefore  could  not  own  them. 

I  came  not  amongst  you  to  arraign  any  for  condemnation, 
or  accusation ;  you  are  all  strangers  to  me,  nevertheless  I 
earnestly  desire  the  salvation  of  all  present.  I  believe  there 
are  those  here  who  are  dissatisfied  with  the  course  they  are 
pursuing,  and  I  would  recommend  such  to  turn  inward  to 
that  light,  grace  and  Truth,  a  measure  and  manifestation  of 
which  is  given  to  every  man  to  profit  withal.  That  grace 
and  Truth  which  gathered  Friends  to  be  a  people  to  the 


374  JOURNAL    OF  [1888. 

glory  of  God ;  and  enabled  them  to  endure  the  scoffs  and 
frowns  of  the  world,  and  all  the  persecutions  inflicted  upon 
them,  with  Christian  patience  and  fortitude,  rejoicing  that 
they  were  counted  worthy  to  suffer  for  the  precious  princi- 
ples and  testimonies  that  many  now  bearing  the  name  of 
Friends  are  trampling  under  foot. 

William  Dewsbury,  who  was  a  prisoner  more  than  twenty 
years,  left  this  testimony  on  record,  that  he  joyfully  entered 
prisons  as  palaces,  and  esteemed  the  bolts  and  locks  as  jewels. 
As  we  have  often  heard  said,  so  I  believe,  that  ancient  Qua- 
kerism is  primitive  Christianity  revived,  and  'as  long  as 
primitive  Christianity  has  a  practical  advocate,  ancient 
Quakerism  will  live  and  not  die. 

Those  who  follow  this  light,  grace  and  Truth  of  which  I 
have  spoken,  will  not  be  disappointed  ;  they  will  be  given 
to  see  the  right  way,  and  enabled  to  pursue  it.  Our  Saviour 
said  to  his  disciples — "  If  any  man  shall  say  unto  you,  Lo 
here  is  Christ,  or  there  ;  believe  it  not.  If  they  shall  say  unto 
you,  Behold  He  is  in  the  desert ;  go  not  forth :  behold  He  is 
in  the  secret  chambers ;  believe  it  not.  For  as  the  lightning 
Cometh  out  of  the  east,  and  shineth  even  unto  the  west ;  so 
shall  also  the  coming  of  the  Son  of  man  be."  When  we  see 
a  vivid  flash  of  lightning  from  east  to  west  we  know  what  it 
is,  and  whence  it  is,  there  is  no  guessing  about  it.  They 
that  wait  upon  the  Lord  shall  renew  their  strength ;  they 
shall  mount  up  with  wings  as  eagles ;  they  shall  run  and 
not  be  weary,  and  they  shall  walk  and  not  faint.  I  encour- 
aged all  to  take  Christ's  yoke  upon  them,  and  learn  of  Him 
who  is  meek  and  lowly  in  heart,  and  they  shall  find  rest 
unto  their  souls. 

Moreover,  those  who  apostatized  from  the  ancient  princir 
pies  and  testimonies  of  Friends,  will  find  no  settlement  nor 
foundation  in  the  Truth,  and  the  great  and  high  profession 


1888.]     '  ANN     BRANSON.  375 

they  are  making  of  faith  in  Christ,  and  their  boast  of  doing 
wonderful  things  in  his  name,  will  be  to  their  shame  and 
confusion,  when  He  shall  profess  unto  them,  I  know  you 
not. 

Before  men  and  women  Friends  separated  to  transact 
the  business,  an  aged  Friend  came  to  me,  and  expressed  in 
a  feeling  manner  his  unity  and  satisfaction  with  my  services 
amongst  them.  The  women's  Clerk  called  for  our  Minutes 
before  proceeding  to  other  business,  and  read  them,  and 
several  expressed  satisfaction  with  our  company,  desiring 
we  might  feel  all  freedom  amongst  them. 

In  the  last  meeting  I  quoted  the  language — Watchman, 
what  of  the  night?  Watchman,  what  of  the  night?  And 
believing  there  were  those  present  inquiring  of  the  watch- 
men the  way  to  Zion,  these  were  directed  and  encouraged 
to  return  to  Him  from  whom  as  a  religious  Society  we  had 
greatly  revolted.  So  come  into  the  obedience  of  faith,  fol- 
lowing the  light  of  Truth  in  their  hearts,  and  they  would 
find  rest  to  their  souls. 

21st. — Attended  Arch  Street  Preparative  Meeting,  and 
had  considerable  service  therein,  to  the  relief  of  my  mind. 
On  arising  the  second  time  to  speak  in  this  meeting,  I  quoted 
the  language — Blessed  are  they  that  hunger  and  thirst  after 
righteousness,  for  they  shall  be  filled ;  and  was  proceeding, 
when  I  noticed  a  woman  on  her  feet  near  the  door.  Sup- 
posing she  was  speaking,  I  sat  down,  being  so  deaf  I  could 
not  hear ;  but  a  Friend  near  me  motioned  to  me  to  proceed, 
which  I  did,  and  finished  what  was  on  my  mind  to  say. 

After  the  meeting  closed,  a  young  Friend  spoke  to  this 
stranger,  and  told  her  I  was  hard  of  hearing  and  did  not 
know  she  was  speaking.  She  replied,  it  was  all  right,  and 
that  she  would  like  to  have  some  conversation  with  me.  At 
a  suitable  time  she  was  invited  to  our  lodgings.  She  told 


376  JOURNAL    OF  [1888. 

us  she  had  been  under  great  exercise  of  mind  for  a  consider- 
able time ;  that  I  had  spoken  to  her  condition  at  Twelfth 
Street  Meeting,  and  she  wished  to  have  an  opportunity  with 
me.  She  belonged  to  the  Methodist  Society,  but  was  dis- 
satisfied with  that  profession.  She  had  recently  been  read- 
ing George  Fox's  Journal,  and  felt  that  her  exercises  of 
mind  answered  in  some  respects  to  his,  and  she  had  been 
encouraged  and  strengthened  by  perusing  his  Journal.  She 
said  the  rebuke  I  gave  her  by  arising  and  quoting  the  pas- 
sage I  did,  whilst  she  was  speaking,  was  what  she  needed. 
She  had  prayed  that  the  Lord  might  rebuke  her  in  what- 
ever way  He  might  choose,  and  bring  her  into  a  conformity 
with  his  will.  She  believed  she  needed  to  be  brought  into 
true  silence  and  stillness  before  Him,  &c. 

I  told  her  that  was  what  she  needed  to  learn,  the  lesson 
of  true  silence,  and  as  she  attended  to  the  Light  of  Christ  in 
her  heart,  with  which  she  had  been  visited,  she  would  be  led 
along  in  a  plain  path,  out  of  all  entanglements,  and  finally 
made  more  than  conqueror  through  Him  that  loved  us.  I 
commended  her  to  God  and  the  word  of  his  grace,  which  is 
able  to  build  us  up  and  give  us  an  inheritance  amongst  all 
them  that  are  sanctified,  and  thus  we  parted. 

After  this  meeting  at  Arch  Street,  cousin  Jacob  went  to 
see  his  children,  who  lived  about  forty  miles  from  the  city ; 
and  cousin  Abigail  and  myself,  accompanied  by  our  kind 
friend,  Joseph  S.  Elkinton,  went  to  Moorestown,  Xew  Jersey, 
and  put  up  at  our  dear  friend,  Hannah  Warrington's.  Feel- 
ing the  need  of  some  rest,  and  desiring  to  attend  Moorestown 
Meeting,  we  tarried  there  until'  after  First-day,  the  24th. 
We  had  a  very  pleasant,  and  I  hope  profitable,  stay  with 
Hannah  Warrington  and  nieces,  and  a  sweet  visit  with  dear 
Martha  R.  Comfort  and  sisters  (Phebe  and  Lydia  Roberts). 
Martha  R.  Comfort  has  since  deceased,  making  a  happy 


1888.]  ANN    BRANSON.  377 

and  peaceful  close.  She  was  a  truly  baptized  elder,  who 
had  a  clear  vision,  and  whose  taste  could  discern  perverse 
things. 

Our  friend,  Hannah  Warrington,  is  in  the  ninety-sixth 
year  of  her  age.  She  is  frail  in  body,  but  able  to  get  out  to 
meetings  quite  frequently.  Her  sight  and  hearing  are  re- 
markably good  for  one  of  her  age,  and  her  intellectual  facul- 
ties as  much  so.  The  strength  and  clearness  of  her  mind 
and  memory  surprises  those  who  converse  with  her.  Having 
given  up  to  serve  the  Lord  in  the  days  of  her  youth,  and 
having  continued  faithful  in  her  allegiance  to  Him  through- 
out her  life  to  the  present  time,  she  is  richly  endowed  with 
that  wisdom  from  above  which  renders  her  company  and 
conversation  very  instructive  and  interesting  to  old  and 
young.  Hannah  Warrington  maintained  a  firm  and  un- 
compromising testimony  against  the  heresy  of  Elias  Hicks, 
and  no  less  so  against  the  unsound  and  anti-Quaker  doc- 
trines of  Joseph  John  Gurney,  whilst  many  others  who  pro- 
fess to  be  standing  firm  for  the  ancient  doctrines  of  Friends, 
by  compromising  somewhat  with  Gurneyism  and  Gurney- 
ites,  have  become  partially  blind  and  shorn  of  their  spiritual 
strength,  but  know  it  not. 

24th. — Attended  Moorestown  Meeting ;  it  was  large,  and 
I  was  favored  therein,  to  relieve  my  mind  in  a  plain  testi- 
mony for  the  Truth. 

25th. — I  parted  with  my  dear  friends  at  Moorestown  ;  to 
meet  no  more  in  mutability.  May  the  Lord  grant  a  prepa- 
ration for  a  re-union  in  that  holy  and  heavenly  city,  into 
which  nothing  that  is  unclean  can  enter. 

26th. — Attended  Philadelphia  Monthly  Meeting  for  the 

Northern  District.    I  feel  it  right  to  express  my  belief,  that 

the  shaking,  and  sifting,  the  turning  and  overturning  which 

has  been  going  on  in  our  Society  for  the  last  fifty  or  sixty 

25 


378  JOURNAL    OF  [1888. 

years  are  not  over:  we  shall  yet  be  more  and  more  closely 
proven  and  tried,  especially  those  who  are  professing  to 
stand  firm  for  the  ancient  doctrines  and  testimonies  of 
Friends ;  and  rny  exhortation  is  that  Friends  may  be  able 
to  endure  what  is  yet  to  corne  by  deepening  in  the  root  of 
life ;  "  Yet  once  more  I  shake  not  the  earth  only,  but  also 
heaven  ;  and  this  word,  yet  once  more,  signifieth  the  re- 
moving of  those  things  that  are  shaken,  as  of  things  that  are 
made,  that  those  things  which  cannot  be  shaken  may  re- 
main." We  have  need  to  be  emptied  and  purged  as  from  the 
gallery  to  the  door;  all  classes  amongst  us,  that  we  may  be 
able  to  say  indeed  and  in  truth,  "I  am  nothing,  Christ  is 
all."  Human  wisdom,  and  human  policy  in  the  transaction 
of  Church  affairs  must  be  rooted  out  from  amongst  us ;  we 
cannot  climb  so  high  or  burrow  so  deep  in  the  earth,  but 
that  the  judgments  of  the  Lord  will  overtake  us ;  we  cannot 
wrest  ourselves  out  of  his  hands,  and  all  who  do  not  bow  in 
mercy  must  bow  in  judgment.  "  That  at  the  name  of  Jesus 
every  knee  should  bow,  of  things  in  heaven,  and  things  in 
earth,  and  things  under  the  earth ;  and  that  every  tongue 
should  confess  that  Jesus  Christ  is  Lord,  to  the  glory  of  God 
the  Father. 

27th. — Attended  Birmingham  Monthly  Meeting,  held  at 
West  Chester,  twenty-five  miles  from  Philadelphia.  Quite 
a  number  of  the  Yearly  Meeting's  Committee  were  present, 
having  met  there  to  arrange  for  carrying  out  the  object  of 
their  appointment,  viz  :  to  visit  Subordinate  Meetings,  fami- 
lies, &c.,  and  to  appoint  as  they  may  see  fit,  public  meetings 
amongst  those  not  in  membership  with  Friends. 

On  taking  my  seat  in  this  meeting,  I  felt  a  hope  to  arise, 
that  it  might  be  right  for  me  to  sit  through  in  silence,  and 
for  a  time  it  seemed  that  it  would  be  realized.  But  as  I  sat 
musing,  the  fire  burned,  and  matter  arose  for  communica- 


1888.]  ANN     BRANSON.  379 

tiou,  and  under  a  sense  of  duty  I  felt  constrained  to  give 
utterance  thereto,  and  I  arose  and  said  :  It  is  recorded 
in  the  New  Testament  that  there  were  two  sisters  named 
Martha  and  Mary,  and  that  Jesus  loved  them  both ;  but 
Martha  was  cumbered  about  much  serving,  whilst  Mary 
sat  at  Jesus'  feet,  and  heard  his  word.  Martha  requested 
Jesus  to  bid  Mary  help  her,  and  received  from  the  Saviour 
this  rebuke,  "  Martha,  Martha,  thou  art  careful  and  troubled 
about  many  things.  But  one  thing  is  needful,  and  Mary 
hath  chosen  that  good  part,  which  shall  not  be  taken  away 
from  her." 

Martha  had  not  this  promise  given  her ;  we  may  suppose 
that  Martha's  trouble  and  care  about  much  serving  was  in 
regard  to  temporal  matters ;  but  there  is  such  a  thing  as 
being  careful  and  troubled  about  much  serving  in  spiritual 
matters,  instead  of  sitting  at  the  feet  of  Jesus  to  hear  and 
obey  his  voice.  I  have  learned  that  the  Enemy  would 
just  as  leave  I  would  get  up  and  preach  a  sound  sermon, 
inviting  my  fellow  pilgrims  to  come  taste  and  see  that 
the  Lord  is  good — that  He  is  worthy  to  be  honored  and 
obeyed  with  the  whole  heart — that  He  is  a  rich  rewarder 
of  those  who  diligently  seek  and  serve  Him,  &c.,  provided 
the  seal  of  Divine  approbation  is  not  upon  it ;  as  if  I  were  to 
preach  an  infidel  sermon.  For  the  enemy  very  well  knows 
that  nothing  but  that  which  comes  from  God  can  draw  to 
God.  He  very  well  knows  that  the  nearer  the  counterfeit 
resembles  the  reality,  or  the  true  coin ;  the  more  it  is  cal- 
culated to  draw  to  his  kingdom,  and  to  scatter  from  the 
kingdom  of  Christ. 

Friends,  there  is  such  a  thing  as  individuals  becoming 
entirely  blind  as  to  their  spiritual  condition ;  this  was  the 
case  with  the  church  of  the  Laodiceans.  They  thought  they 
were  rich,  and  increased  with  goods,  and  in  need  of  noth- 


380  JOURNAL    OF  [1888. 

ing,  and  knew  not  that  they  were  wretched,  and  miserable, 
and  poor,  and  blind,  and  naked ;  and  that  their  condition 
was  loathsome  in  the  sight  of  God,  and  yet  their  state  was 
not  altogether  a  hopeless  one.  The  language  of  the  Spirit 
to  this  Church  was,  "  I  counsel  thee  to  buy  of  me,  gold  tried 
in  the  fire,  that  thou  mayest  be  rich ;  and  white  raiment 
that  thou  mayest  be  clothed,  and  that  the  shame  of  thy 
nakedness  do  not  appear,  and  anoint  thine  eyes  with  eye- 
salve,  that  thou  mayest  see." 

I  make  no  allegations  against  any  present;  but  Friends! 
we  have  had  many  warnings,  and  do  we  not  believe  there 
are  at  this  time,  amongst  those  claiming  the  name  of  Friends, 
individuals,  and  even  whole  meetings,  as  blind  to  their  spirit- 
ual condition  as  were  the  Laodiceans?  But  let  us  remember 
that  we  have  the  same  fallen  nature  as  these — the  same  un- 
wearied enemy  to  contend  with,  and  we  have  only  to  turn 
away  from  the  leadings  and  teachings  of  the  Holy  Spirit, 
and  follow  the  will  and  wisdom  of  man,  to  become  as  blind 
as  they. 

"  Let  him  that  thinketh  he  standeth  take  heed  lest  he  fall." 
The  Lord  is  no  respecter  of  persons ;  there  is  no  safety  for 
any  of  us,  only  by  keeping  the  eye  single  unto  Him,  and  fol- 
lowing the  leadings  and  teachings  of  his  Holy  Spirit.  These 
He  will  preserve  alive  in  the  Truth.  These  are  able  to  de- 
tect the  transformations  of  Satan,  and  will  not  be  deceived 
thereby,  though  they  are  many  and  various.  I  exhorted 
the  young  people  to  turn  inward  and  keep  the  eye  to  the 
Master,  that  they  might  be  able  to  discern  what  was  of  and 
from  Him,  and  what  was  not. 

28th. — Attended  Philadelphia  Monthly  Meeting,  held  at 
Arch  Street.  On  arising  to  speak  in  this  meeting,  I  referred 
briefly  to  Ezekiel's  vision  by  the  river  Chebar,  saying  that 
this  vision  of  the  prophet  concerning  the  wheels,  represented 


1888.]  ANN     BRANSON.  381 

to  my  mind,  the  state  of  man  as  he  stands  in  the  fall, — his 
lifeless  and  powerless  condition  spiritually,  and  also  his  state 
and  condition  when  raised  out  of  the  fall.  It  must  have 
been  wonderful  to  the  prophet,  to  behold  wheels  lifted  up 
from  the  earth,  having  the  spirit  of  the  living  creatures  in 
them,  going  straight  forward,  turning  not  as  they  went,  fol- 
lowing the  Spirit  whithersoever  it  went,  for  whither  the  Spirit 
went  their  spirit  was  to  go ;  and  it  was  cried  in  my  hearing, 
"  Oh  wheel."  So  man,  quickened  by  the  Holy  Spirit,  and 
following  its  leadings  and  teachings,  is  raised  up  out  of  his 
natural,  lifeless  and  fallen  condition,  and  enabled  to  pursue 
the  path  that  leads  to  peace,  happiness  and  everlasting  glory, 
notwithstanding  all  the  hindering  and  letting  things,  cast 
into  his  way  by  the  world,  the  flesh  and  the  devil. 

Following  the  prophet  in  his  vision,  he  saith,  So  the  spirit 
lifted  me  up,  and  took  me  away,  and  I  went  in  bitterness, 
in  the  heat  of  my  spirit ;  but  the  hand  of  the  Lord  was 
strong  upon  me.  And  he  was  commanded  to  go,  and  to 
speak  unto  the  house  of  Israel  all  that  the  Lord  commanded 
him  to  speak.  At  the  same  time  the  Lord  said  unto  him  : 
But  they  will  not  hearken  unto  thee,  for  they  will  not 
hearken  unto  me. 

The  above  is  the  substance  of  what  I  said  when  I  first 
spoke  in  this  meeting.  I  then  took  my  seat,  and  after  sit- 
ting awhile,  I  arose  and  said  : 

Now,  Friends,  I  have  a  testimony  to  leave  with  you,  and 
I  must  be  faithful,  whether  you  are  able  to  receive  it  or  not. 
There  is,  I  believe,  in  this  Yearly  Meeting,  a  compromising 
spirit,  with  which  the  Lord  hath  a  controversy.  This  spirit 
has  arranged  itself  conspicuously  on  the  side  of  ancient 
Quakerism,  both  by  word  and  writing,  nevertheless,  it 
practically  ignores  the  Discipline,  by  refusing  or  declining 
to  put  that  official  difference  between  the  sound  and  the 


382  JOURNAL     OF  [1888. 

unsound  which  the  Discipline  and  the  order  of  the  gospel 
enjoin.  It  allows  all  to  go  in  and  to  come  out  of  Meet- 
ings for  Discipline  on  the  same  platform ;  that  is,  without 
any  official  acknowledgment  of  the  sound,  or  rejection  of 
the  unsound.  This  spirit  has  its  origin  in  the  wisdom  and 
policy  of  man.  It  is  also  a  fearful,  cringing  spirit,  afraid  to 
do  right  for  fear  of  consequences.  I  believe  the  Lord  will 
turn  and  overturn,  sift  and  shake,  until  this  spirit  is  rooted 
out,  even  if  it  should  leave  but  a  very  few  standing  plumb 
for  the  Truth — comparable  to  the  few  berries,  in  the  out- 
most fruitful  branches  of  the  uppermost  bough,  (Isaiah, 
xvii :  6.)  There  are  some  amongst  you,  who  are  dissatisfied 
with  this  state  of  things,  but  they  are  afraid  to  speak  their 
minds,  lest  they  should  lose  caste  or  credit  with  others. 

After  this  meeting,  I  felt  released  from  further  service 
within  the  limits  of  Philadelphia  Yearly  Meeting,  except 
some  plain  talk  with  a  few  individuals,  on  the  subject  above 
referred  to. 

On  the  29th,  started  for  home,  and  arrived  there  safely 
on  the  30th,  thankful  for  the  favors  bestowed  whilst  out  on 
this  visit,  and  thankful  for  a  safe  return,  without  feeling  any 
burden  of  omission  or  commission  resting  upon  me. 

In  reference  to  my  testimony  in  Arch  Street  Monthly 
Meeting  as  given,  I  think  it  right  to  say,  that  it  has  now 
been  thirty-three  years  since  the  Gurneyites  separated  from 
Ohio  Yearly  Meeting,  and  set  up  a  separate  Yearly  Meet- 
ing, known  by  the  name  of  the  Binns'  Yearly  Meeting. 
This  body  is  notorious  for  its  anti-Quaker  principles  and 
practices,  denying  the  Light  of  Christ  in  the  heart  of  man, 
(see  criticism  on  the  Ohio  Minutes,  by  Cyrus  W.  Harvey) 
they  practice  water  baptism,  singing  in  their  meetings  &c. 
At  the  time  of  this  separation  in  1854,  Benjamin  Hoyle  was 
Clerk  of  Ohio  Yearly  Meeting.  At  the  next  Yearly  Meet- 


1889.]  ANN     BRANSON.  383 

ing  of  Philadelphia,  epistles  were  presented  to  it,  from  the 
two  bodies  claiming  to  be  Ohio  Yearly  Meeting.  The  epistle 
signed  by  Benjamin  Hoyle  was  read  and  recorded  by  Phila- 
delphia Yearly  Meeting  as  coming  from  the  legitimate 
Yearly  Meeting  of  Ohio.  That  signed  by  Jonathan  Binns 
was  considered  as  coming  from  a  body  of  separatists ;  but 
notwithstanding  the  decision  of  Philadelphia  Yearly  Meet- 
ing relative  to  these  two  bodies,  it  has  from  that  day  to  this 
allowed  members  of  the  Binns'  Yearly  Meeting  to  attend 
its  meetings  for  discipline,  and  ministers  from  that  body 
have  been  frequent  in  their  attendance  of  Philadelphia 
Yearly  Meeting,  and  others  equally  unsound  from  other 
Yearly  Meetings  who  correspond  with  the  Binns'  meeting, 
are  allowed  to  preach  and  pray  in  the  meetings  of  Phila- 
delphia Yearly  Meeting,  visit  subordinate  meetings  and 
families,  &c.,  without  any  official  action  taken  according  to 
discipline  and  true  gospel  order  to  prevent  it.  This  is  a 
lamentation,  and  shall  be  for  a  lamentation,  until  the  breach 
is  stopped,  or  mended. 

Since  my  return  from  this  visit,  my  health  has  been  very 
poor  most  of  the  time,  so  that  I  have  not  been  out  to  meet- 
ing very  often,  yet  I  attended  our  late  Yearly  Meeting,  and 
was  favored  with  strength  to  attend  all  the  sittings.  During 
the  meeting  I  visited  men's  meeting. 

Twelfth  Month  28th.— On  the  22nd  of  this  month  I  was 
eighty  years  old.  Great  and  marvellous  are  thy  works, 
Lord  God  Almighty,  just  and  true  are  all  thy  ways,  what 
shall  I  render  unto  thee  for  all  thy  benefits  ?  for  thou  hast 
encompassed  me  about  from  my  childhood  with  innumer- 
able blessings. 

Second  Month  1st,  1889. — This  morning  is  very  bright, 
calm  and  beautiful,  and  the  air  invigorating,  having  been  pre- 
ceded by  many  days  of  cloudy,  rainy  and  stormy  weather, 


384  JOURNAL    OF  [1889. 

during  which  I  have  suffered  great  oppression  with  bron- 
chial affection,  but  feel  much  better  this  morning.  May  I 
continue  to  trust  the  great  "  I  Am,"  through  all  storms  and 
tempests,  inwardly  and  outwardly. 

17th. — Still  confined  to  the  house  by  indisposition.  But 
my  heart  is  greatly  exercised  for  the  welfare  of  our  little 
meeting,  and  for  society  at  large.  Oh  that  we  might  deepen 
in  the  root  of  life,  that  our  candlestick  be  not  removed  out 
of  its  place. 

25th. — Still  confined  to  the  house  and  mostly  to  my  bed, 
under  weakness  and  suffering,  all  ordered  in  wisdom  by  the 
Father  of  mercies.  Greatly  exercised  for  the  members  of 
our  little  meeting. 

Third  Month  3rd. — It  is  seven  weeks  to-day  since  I  was 
out  of  the  house;  during  this  time  I  have  suffered  much 
with  neuralgia  and  bronchial  affection,  but  I  trust  I  have 
been  preserved  from  murmuring,  "  I  have  great  cause  for 
thankfulness,  not  only  for  intervals  of  comparative  ease 
from  pain  and  difficulty  of  breathing,  but  for  those  seasons 
when  the  great  Physician  interposes  his  omnipotent  hand, 
and  soothes  this  suffering  tenement  of  clay,  and  gives  me  to 
see  and  feel  that  nothing  is  too  hard  for  Him  to  perform. 
Blessed  be  his  name.  He  can  bring  low  and  raise  up,  ac- 
cording to  his  own  will  and  good  pleasure,  and  none  can 
stay  his  Almighty  hand  and  power.  "Bless  the  Lord,  oh 
my  soul,  and  all  that  is  within  me  bless  his  holy  name." 

5th. — The  outward  creation  is  a  theme  for  contemplation, 
wonder  and  admiration,  concerning  the  power,  wisdom  and 
goodness  of  the  great  Creator;  and  in  view  of  the  Christian 
traveller,  the  work  of  the  Lord  in  the  heart  of  man  is  no  less 
marvellous. 

6th. — I  feel  deeply  and  renewedly  sensible  of  the  natural 
depravity  of  the  human  heart,  and  that  every  imagination 


1889.]  ANN     BRANSON.  385 

of  the  thoughts  of  the  heart  of  man  is  evil  and  that  con- 
tinually, in  his  unregenerate  state ;  and  that  nothing  can 
give  him  a  sight  and  sense  of  this  depravity,  but  the  grace 
of  God,  which  is  his  gift  for  man's  salvation,  through  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord  ;  and  by  following  this  light,  grace  and 
truth,  he  becomes  regenerated  and  born  again  of  the  incor- 
ruptible seed  and  word  of  God  that  liveth  and  abideth 
forever. 

Sixth  Month  28th. — To-day  I  returned  home  from  a  visit 
to  the  meetings  of  Salem  Quarterly  Meeting,  having  pre- 
viously visited  those  of  Stillwater,  with  a  Minute  obtained 
in  the  Fifth  Month,  liberating  me  for  the  service.  I  have, 
during  these  visits,  appointed  four  meetings  from  amongst 
Friends,  all  to  the  relief  and  peace  of  my  mind.  But  oh,  the 
baptisms  which  it  has  cost  me  to  appoint  meetings  amongst 
others,  being  so  very  frail  and  weak  for  such  engagements 
but  I  must  say  that  the  Lord  has  been  very  gracious 
unto  me,  and  verified  his  promise,  viz :  "  I  will  be  with  thee 
and  strengthen  thee  as  thou  puts  thy  trust  in  me."  And 
verily  I  have  found  to  my  great  admiration  and  satisfaction 
that  He  has  not  forsaken  me  in  times  of  great  trial,  when 
the  heavens  were  as  brass,  and  the  earth  with  her  iron  bars 
were  round  about  me,  and  I  seemed  enclosed  as  with  hewn 
stone.  Truly  He  hath  been  strength  in  weakness  and  a 
present  help  in  the  needful  time.  My  soul  doth  magnify 
and  praise  his  great  and  adorable  name. 

Great  plainness  of  speech  have  I  been  led  to  use  among 
my  own  people,  and  to  warn  them  of  the  judgments  yet  to 
come,  if  we  repent  not  of  our  many  sins  and  grievous  back- 
slidings. 

Seventh  Month  23rd. — I  attended  Short  Creek  Monthly 
Meeting,  in  which  I  felt  it  right  to  revive  the  language  of 
the  prophet  Jeremiah,  "  Assemble  yourselves,  and  let  us  go 


386  JOURNAL    OF  [1889. 

into  the  defenced  cities.  Set  up  the  standard  toward  Zion ; 
retire,  stay  not.  The  lion  is  come  up  from  his  thicket,  and 
the  destroyer  of  the  Gentiles  is  on  his  way."  I  had  to  ex- 
press my  belief  that  the  Lord  would  yet  try  us  as  to  an 
hair's  breadth.  It  matters  not  what  we  may  profess,  as  to 
be  standing  for  the  ancient  doctrines  and  testimonies  of 
Friends,  if  we  are  not  practical  cross-bearing  Christians, 
such  as  our  early  Friends  were  ;  all  our  profession  will  avail 
us  nothing.  I  said  there  was  amongst  us  a  worldly  com- 
promising spirit,  which  if  not  rooted  out,  would  root  out 
ancient  Quakerism  from  our  midst,  as  surely  as  it  had  rooted 
out  ancient  Quakerism  from  the  Gurneyites.  I  exhorted 
Friends  to  get  down  deep  and  earnestly  seek  in  that  ability 
which  God  giveth  to  build  upon  the  sure  foundation  which 
can  abide  the  storm,  quoting  from  Isaiah  :  "  My  people  shall 
dwell  in  a  peaceable  habitation,  and  in  sure  dwellings,  and 
in  quiet  resting  places,  when  it  shall  hail,  coming  down  on 
the  forest,"  &c. 

Tenth  Month  14th. — I  attended  all  the  sittings  of  our 
late  Yearly  Meeting,  which  ended  on  the  4th  inst.  I  had 
but  little  vocal  service  therein.  There  was  a  good  deal  of 
preaching  on  public  meeting  days,  and  during  the  business 
transactions.  But  this  language  was  sounding  in  my  ears : 
"  Be  silent  O  all  flesh,  before  the  Lord ;  for  He  is  raised  up 
out  of  his  holy  habitation."  Previous  to  our  late  Yearly 
Meeting  I  spent  three  weeks  in  the  limits  of  Guernsey  Pre- 
parative Meeting,  a  branch  of  Flushing  Monthly  Meeting. 
Some  of  this  time  I  was  suffering  too  much  with  neuralgia 
to  attend  to  any  religious  service,  but  was  enabled  to  visit 
a  number  of  families  mostly  among  the  Gurneyites,  which 
appeared  to  be  well  received,  and  afforded  peace  to  my 
mind.  I  also  appointed  a  meeting  for  worship  in  that 
neighborhood  for  those  people.  They  generally  attended 


1889.]  ANN    BRANSON.  387 

and  behaved  with  much  propriety,  and  I  thought  it  might 
be  said  Truth  reigned  over  all  opposition.  I  spoke  of  the 
spring  of  Gospel  ministry,  and  of  true  and  acceptable  wor- 
ship, in  a  very  plain  way,  contrasting  the  true  and  the  false, 
and  showing  the  different  results  between  the  two,  and  how 
the  Lord  Jesus  spake  of  those  who  boasted  of  having  pro- 
phesied in  his  name,  and  in  his  name  cast  out  devils,  and  in 
his  name  done  many  wonderful  works.  I  earnestly  entreated 
those  present  to  examine  by  the  light  of  Christ  in  their 
hearts,  how  their  spiritual  accounts  are  standing  in  the  sight 
of  the  Lord,  who  cannot  be  deceived,  and  be  willing  to  bear 
the  baptisms  of  the  fire  and  Holy  Ghost  (the  only  essential 
baptism),  which  will  cleanse  the  heart  from  all  the  filth  and 
defilements  of  the  flesh,  and  prepare  it  for  the  inscription 
of  holiness  unto  the  Lord.  For  without  holiness  no  man 
shall  see  the  Lord.  It  cost  me  much  conflict  of  spirit  to 
give  up  to  appoint  this  meeting,  but  I  felt  a  great  burden 
off  my  shoulders  after  it  was  over.  Blessed  be  the  name  of 
the  Lord. 

Eleventh  Month  2nd. — I  have  been  for  nearly  two  weeks 
past  unable  to  get  out  to  meetings,  and  suffering  at  times, 
with  great  difficulty  of  breathing.  But  I  do  not  feel  like 
murmuring.  Blessed  be  the  Lord,  who  I  believe  hath  not 
forsaken  me. 

Twelfth  Month  22nd. — To-day  I  enter  the  eighty-second 
year  of  my  age  ;  the  day  has  been  bright  and  beautiful,  calm 
and  mild  as  that  of  a  southern  clime.  But  I  am  very  frail 
and  weak,  not  able  to  get  to  meeting,  or  scarcely  walk  alone. 
But  this  has  been  the  language  of  my  heart :  "  Surely  good- 
ness and  mercy  have  followed  me  all  the  days  of  my  life," 
and  a  humble  hope  pervades  my  heart,  that  when  the  sum- 
mons of  death  comes,  the  Lord  will  not  cast  me  off,  but  that 


388  JOURNAL    OF  [1890. 

through  his  mercy  in  Christ  Jesus  I  may  be  permitted  to 
land  safely.  Oh  blessed  hope. 

Third  Month  19th,  1890.— "Day  unto  day  uttereth  speech 
and  night  unto  night  showeth  knowledge."  A  fall  of  snow 
last  night,  and  this  morning  the  earth  is  clothed  in  a  beauti- 
ful white  robe ;  every  tree,  and  every  limb  and  twig,  is  load- 
ed with  beautiful  white  crystal  flakes.  Oh  thou  great  and 
holy  One,  what  is  man  that  thou  art  mindful  of  him,  or  the 
son  of  man  that  thou  visitest  him."  Thy  wisdom,  power 
and  goodness  is  seen  in  all  thy  works,  and  made  manifest  to 
the  eye  of  faith.  Shall  I  ever  cease  to  trust  in  thy  mercy 
and  goodness  in  the  most  proving  and  trying  days  and  hours 
yet  to  be  dispensed  in  this  state  of  probation.  When  the 
heavens  seem  as  brass,  and  the  earth  with  her  iron  bars  are 
round  about  me,  apparently  without  possibility  of  change ; 
give  me,  I  entreat  thee,  patience  to  endure,  for  I  know  thou 
canst  change  the  dispensation  at  any  moment  thou  seest  fit. 
I  have  proven  thy  loving  kindness,  thy  power  and  thy  good- 
ness, and  should  I  now  cast  away  my  confidence,  when  the 
shackles  of  mortality  are  ready  to  drop  off?  Thou  knowest 
my  weakness  physically  and  mentally  ;  thou  knowest  I  have 
no  power  to  do  aught  to  thy  praise  or  glory,  only  as  thou 
strengthens  me.  Blessing,  praise,  glory,  honor  and  high 
renown  be  ascribed  unto  thee,  now  and  forever.  Amen. 

Fourth  Month  13th. — I  was  taken  with  La  Grippe  one 
week  ago,  and  have  been  very  ill.  My  cough  at  times 
threatening  strangulation.  But  the  Lord  who  sitteth  upon 
the  flood,  who  sitteth  King  forever,  has  been  my  helper  and 
preserved  my  life  thus  far.  Blessed  be  his  name. 

20th. — This  has  been  a  beautiful  day ;  the  sky  clear,  the 
air  pure  and  salubrious,  and  the  whole  face  of  nature  smiling 
with  verdure  and  beauty.  But  my  own  un worthiness  to 
partake  and  to  enjoy  the  bounties  of  a  bountiful  Giver,  and 


1890.]  ANN    BRANSON.  389 

the  condition  of  my  people  casts  a  gloom  over  all.  Some 
might  say  what  do  I  mean  by  this?  I  mean  that  the  ingrati- 
tude apparent  for  the  blessings  conferred  upon  us,  the  worldly 
mindedness,  the  pride  and  vanity,  in  short,  the  want  of 
practical  Christianity  amongst  the  people  in  general,  of 
every  religious  denomination,  as  well  as  the  non-professor, 
seems  to  me  to  threaten  us  with  heavy  judgments,  both  in 
Church  and  State. 

I  attended  our  little  meeting  to-day,  and  felt  that  the 
prayer  and  confession  of  Neheiniah  011  behalf  of  himself  and 
his  people,  might  well  engage  our  thoughts.  Oh,  the  pros- 
tration of  soul  that  is  called  for,  that  we  may  not  be  swal- 
lowed up. 

Sixth  Month  23rd. — Oh,  Lord  God,  thou  knowest  my 
poverty,  temptations  and  tried  condition.  Be  pleased,  I  en- 
treat thee,  in  thy  great  mercy  to  continue  thy  loving  kind- 
ness towards  nie,  in  rebukes,  chastisements,  or  in  any  way 
thou  sees  fit  for  my  purification.  I  have  been  holding  a 
Minute  for  more  than  a  year,  for  religious  service  within 
our  own  Yearly  Meeting,  amongst  Friends  and  others,  but 
for  some  months  past  my  way  has  been  closed  up,  and  I  have 
not  been  able  in  body  or  mind  to  prosecute  the  visit  further, 
and  yet  not  satisfied  to  return  my  Minute.  Great  at  times 
have  been  the  conflicts  of  my  spirit.  Oh,  that  I  may  be 
preserved  from  casting  away  my  confidence  in  the  Lord. 

Yesterday,  I  was  eighty-one  years  and  six  months  old,  and 
I  can  say,  hitherto  the  Lord  hath  helped  me  through  many 
straits  and  difficulties,  and  shall  I  now  give  out  in  my  old 
age?  Oh,  my  soul  rather  chooses  to  bear  anything  thou 
mayest  be  pleased  to  dispense,  oh  thou  Holy  One,  than  give 
way  to  doubting  and  despair. 

It  is  about  three  months  since  I  opened  my  mouth  in  the 
ministry  in  our  religious  meetings,  or  elsewhere,  until  yes- 


390  JOURNAL    OF  [1890. 

terday.  Meeting  with  a  man  with  whom  I  had  some  ac- 
quaintance some  years  ago,  and  knowing  him  to  be  in  a  dark 
and  disconsolate  condition ;  soon  after  shaking  hands  with 
him  something  arose  on  my  mind  to  say  to  him,  and  before 
leaving  the  Friend's  house  where  I  met  him,  I  spoke  to  him 
what  was  on  my  mind.  I  told  him  that  there  was  hope  for 
us,  so  long  as  the  door  of  mercy  was  not  closed  against  us, 
no  matter  what  our  spiritual  condition  might  be.  That  I 
believed  the  door  of  mercy  was  not  closed  against  him  ;  but 
the  call  was  to  arise,  and  shake  himself,  through  the  ability 
afforded,  from  all  that  the  Lord's  controversy  is  with.  To 
bear  the  judgments  of  the  Lord  in  the  temple  of  the  heart, 
that  a  preparation  might  be  experienced  for  that  holy  and 
glorious  city  whose  walls  are  salvation  and  whose  gates  are 
praise,  and  into  which  nothing  that  is  unclean  can  enter. 
He  is  one  who  left  our  Yearly  Meeting  some  years  ago  with 
Joshua  Maule  and  others,  and  he  has  had  a  bitter  cup  to 
partake  of  since,  his  wife  having  deserted  him  and  living 
with  another  man,  and  casting  him  off. 

I  felt  peaceful  and  easy  after  this  little  service,  and  this 
consideration  arose,  viz :  If  the  Master  had  wholly  forsaken 
me  He  would  not  have  required  and  strengthened  me  for 
this  little  service.  Oh,  that  I  may  quietly  wait  and  patiently 
hope  for  the  return  of  the  Beloved  of  souls.  I  know  that 
I  need  the  fire  and  the  hammer;  I  know  that  I  need  re- 
newed baptisms  of  a  fiery  nature.  Why  then,  oh  my  soul, 
why  recoil  at  these  dispensations?  Rather  kiss  the  rod  and 
bless  the  hand  that  wields  it. 

Seventh  Month  22nd. — Oh,  Holy  Father,  thou  who  hast 
all  power  in  heaven  and  in  the  earth,  be  pleased,  I  beseech 
thee,  to  preserve  me  from  the  temptations  of  the  adversary 
that  surround  my  pathway  at  the  present  time  on  the  right 
hand  and  on  the  left,  that  I  may  not  now  in  the  decline  of 


1890.]  ANN     BRANSON.  391 

life,  after  having  experienced  thy  arm  of  power,  through  all 
ray  life  thus  far  to  support,  cast  away  my  confidence  in  thee. 
Oh,  holy  and  blessed  One,  I  do  most  ardently  beseech  thee, 
through  thy  everlasting  mercy  in  Christ  Jesus  to  undertake 
for  me.  Thou  knowest  my  great  weakness  bodily  and  men- 
tally, and  that  I  desire  to  be  able  to  say,  in  deed  and  in 
truth — Thy  kingdom  come,  thy  will  be  done,  in  earth  as  it 
is  heaven.  Oh,  hear  the  prayer  of  one  of  the  weakest  and 
most  unworthy  of  thy  creatures,  that  I  may  put  on  strength 
in  thy  name,  and  that  the  creature  may  be  abased  as  in  dust 
and  ashes  before  thee.  Amen,  aud  amen. 

Tenth  Month  14th. — It  is  now  seven  weeks  since  I  was 
suddenly  prostrated  with  heart  failure,  and  my  life  often 
despaired  of  since,  as  well  as  often  before. 

Oppressed  and  trembling,  on  the  verge 

Of  death  I  often  stand, 
Whilst  naught  prevents  the  threatening  stroke 

But  thy  almighty  hand. 

The  great  Almighty,  holy  One, 

How  marvellous  thy  power, 
Grant  faith  until  my  race  is  run, 

To  light  the  darkest  hour. 

In  the  dark  watches  of  the  night, 

Oppressed  I  cry  to  thee  ; 
And  thou  in  mercy  hears  my  prayer, 

Believes  and  strengthens  me. 

I  will  talk  of  thy  goodness, 

I  will  tell  of  thy  might ; 
I  will  praise  thee  by  day, 

I  wilt  praise  thee  by  night. 

Thou  bringest  me  low, 

Thou  raisest  me  up  ; 
Embitters  the  draught, 

And  sweetens  the  cup. 


392  JOURNAL     OF  [1890. 

Through  unspeakable  mercy 

Thou  deigns  to  control, 
The  dangers  that  threaten 

My  body  and  soul. 

Every  blade  of  grass, 

Every  leaf  on  the  tree, 
Unite  in  ascribing 

Thanksgiving  to  thee. 

Eleventh  Month  23rd. — Attended  meeting  to-day  for  the 
first  time  within  the  last  three  months.  During  the  interval 
I  have  been  brought  near  to  the  grave.  But  He  who  hath 
all  power  in  heaven  and  in  the  earth,  hath  raised  me  up 
again  to  proclaim  his  goodness  and  mercy,  his  long  suffering 
and  kindness  to  the  children  of  men.  Oh,  that  they  might 
serve  Him  better  and  love  Him  above  all.  I  quoted  in  our 
meeting  to-day,  this  passage,  viz:  "If  thou  hast  run  with 
the  footmen,  and  they  have  wearied  thee,  then  how  canst 
thou  contend  with  horses?  And  if  in  the  land  of  peace, 
wherein  thou  trustedst,  they  wearied  thee,  then  how  wilt  thou 
do  in  the  swelling  of  Jordan  ? " 

I  felt  that  there  were  some  present,  who  were  pursuing  a 
path,  going  along  with  others,  that  did  not  bring  peace  of 
mind,  and  I  exhorted  them  to  stay  their  footsteps,  whilst 
strength  and  opportunity  were  offered,  lest  temptations  come 
upon  them  too  strong  to  resist ;  and  they  be  left  to  them- 
selves and  overpowered  thereby.  Continuing  in  a  false  rest 
when  opportunity  and  a  call  is  given  to  wake  up  and  come 
out  of  that  condition,  what  will  such  do,  when  the  judgments 
of  the  Lord  overtake  them,  and  no  more  opportunity  given 
to  make  their  calling  and  election  sure  ?  The  swellings  of 
Jordan  must  overtake  all ;  but  the  righteous  have  an  anchor 
to  the  soul,  both  sure  and  steadfast.  Oh,  how  ardent  are 
rny  exercises  for  myself  and  fellow-pilgrims,  that  we  may 
turn  unto  the  Lord  with  the  whole  heart. 


1891.]  ANN    BRANSON.  393 

Twelfth  Month  6th. — Yesterday  was  a  day  to  be  remem- 
bered; great  oppression,  and  difficulty  of  breathing,  caused 
by  heart  failure.  But  the  Lord  was  pleased  to  keep  the 
vapor  of  life  from  becoming  extinct.  Surely,  I  have  many 
solemn  warnings  to  be  ready  for  a  sudden  call  from  works 
to  rewards.  Oh,  that  I  may  not  be  weighed  in  the  balance 
and  found  wanting  at  that  solemn  period. 

22nd. — To-day,  I  enter  the  eighty-third  year  of  my  age. 
I  wish  to  commemorate  the  goodness  and  mercy  of  God  to 
my  soul  all  my  life  long. 

First  Month  6th,  1891. — Dearest  Father!  grant  patience 
to  endure  this  great  affliction  thou  in  thy  wisdom  hast  per- 
mitted to  come  upon  me,  so  that  I  may  not  bring  dishonor 
or  reproach  upon  the  Truth,  by  thought,  word  or  deed. 
Amen,  and  amen. 

Second  Month  9th. — Great  is  the  Lord,  and  greatly  to  be 
praised,  and  his  greatness  is  unsearchable.  Praise  Him  all 
ye  people.  In  the  depths  of  affliction  I  will  praise  thee. 
Oh,  keep  me  in  the  everlasting  patience  of  thy  saints.  Thou 
only  knowest  my  weakness  and  suffering,  and  thou  only 
canst  give  relief.  Praises,  high  praises,  be  ascribed  to  thy 
name;  blessing,  glory,  hallelujah  and  high  renown.  Amen. 

Third  Month  28th. — Oh  Lord,  thou  only  knowest,  why 
thou  hast  permitted  this  sore  and  grievous  affliction  to  come 
upon  me,  sanctify  it,  I  pray  thee,  to  my  soul,  and  to  others 
in  thy  wisdom.  Give  me  patience,  I  entreat  thee,  to  bear 
what  is  necessary  for  my  refinement ;  I  go  down  into  the 
deeps  of  oppression  and  physical  distress,  and  my  soul  is 
troubled,  then  thou  hast  compassion  on  me,  and  mitigates 
my  distress.  Oh,  Heavenly  Father,  be  graciously  pleased 
not  to  cast  me  off  in  this  great  extremity,  or  allow  me  to 
bring  reproach  upon  thy  name,  or  the  Truth  I  have  espoused. 
26 


394  JOURNAL    OF  [1891. 

30th. — Thanks  to  thee,  O  Lord,  for  the  respite  granted 
last  night  from  severe  suffering  and  distress.  Be  pleased,  I 
beseech  thee,  to  enable  me  to  endure  more  patiently  what 
thou  art  pleased,  in  thy  wisdom  to  dispense,  and  give  me 
implicit  confidence  to  trust  in  thee,  in  heights  and  in  depths. 

The  following  is  an  extract  from  a  letter  to  a  niece,  same 
date,  30th : 

"  My  love  flows  towards  thee  unabated  through  the  waves 
and  billows  of  deep  affliction.  None  but  the  Lord  knows 
what  this  frail  tabernacle  is  permitted  to  suffer  in  the  way 
of  difficulty  of  breathing  and  great  oppression,  and  other 
things  combined ;  but  it  is,  I  fully  believe,  in  great  wisdom 
dispensed,  and  I  can  at  times  bless  and  praise  his  holy  name 
through  all,  and  the  language  of  my  heart  now  is,  "  Oh ! 
that  men  would  bless  the  Lord  for  his  goodness  and  for  his 
wonderful  works  to  the  children  of  men." 

"A  little  respite  now  and  then  from  the  oppression  and 
distress  is  unexpectedly  granted ;  last  night  it  was  so,  and 
left  me  in  quiet  sleep  and  repose,  which  is  indeed  cause  of 
deep  gratitude  of  heart,  showing  that  the  dear  Master  can 
change  the  dispensations  whenever  He  sees  meet.  Oh,  that 
I  may  be  fully  p  repaired  to  say  at  all  times,  and  under  all 
circumstances,  '  Thy  will  be  done.'  It  is  marvellous  to  me, 
that  J  am  able  to  write  these  lines  to  thee  to-day." 

"31st. — I  cannot  look  over  my  letter  this  morning  to 
correct  any  mistakes.  Farewell,  dear  R.,  and  all  the  rest ! 
Thy  afflicted  aunt,  A.  B. — yet  trusting  in  the  mercy  of  God 
through  Christ  Jesus." 

Fourth  Month  6th. — Bless  the  Lord,  Oh,  my  soul,  and 
all  that  is  within  me,  bless  his  holy  name,  who  redeemeth 
thy  life  from  destruction,  who  crowneth  thee  with  loving- 
kindness,  who  restoreth  thy  soul,  who  leadeth  me  in  paths 
of  righteousness  for  his  name's  sake ;  and  though  I  walk 


395  JOURNAL    OF  [1891. 

through  the  valley  of  the  shadow  of  death,  I  will  fear  no 
evil,  for  thou  art  with  me ;  thy  rod  and  thy  staff  they  com- 
fort me. 

This  last  entry  was  penned  five  days  before  her  death, 
which  occurred  at  the  residence  of  her  sister-in-law,  Julian  n 
H.  Branson,  Flushing,  Ohio,  Fourth  Month  llth,  1891,  in 
the  eighty-third  year  of  her  age.  Her  remains  were  interred 
in  Friend's  burying-ground  on  the  afternoon  of  the  13th, 
after  a  solemn  meeting. 


INDEX. 


Abbott,  George,  248. 

"Appeal  for  the  Ancient  Doctrines  of  the  Society  of  Friends."     No- 
tice of,  17,  274. 

Adopted  by  Ohio  Yearly  Meeting,  17. 
Armstrong,  N.,  110. 

Ash,  Edward.    Notice  of  unsound  doctrines  of,  17. 
Ashton,  Martha,  112. 
Askew,  Parker,  287. 

Bacon,  Wilmon,  245. 

Bailey,  William,  320. 

Barclay,  Lydia  Ann,  257. 

Bates,  Elisha.    Unsound  doctrines  advocated  by,  12,  353. 

Disownment  of,  16. 

Dr.  William  S.,  327. 
Bedell,  William,  284. 
Binns,  David,  192. 

Jonathan,  383. 
Blackburn,  Ann,  335. 
Bonsall,  Abraham,  279. 
Borton,  Mary,  240. 
Brackin,  Lemuel  and  Mary,  278. 

Eichard,  278. 
Braithwaite,  Isaac,  14. 

Anna,  14. 
Branson,  Abraham,  170. 

Abigail,  305. 

Ann.    Birth  and  parentage  of,  9. 

Early  religious  exercises  of,  11,  18. 

Remarks  of,  in  relation  to  Elisha  Bates,  12,  18. 

Testimony  of,  against  the  writings  of  Joseph  John  Gurney 
16,  18. 


398  INDEX. 

Branson,  Ann.  An  impression  of,  to  engage  in  the  ministry,  diso- 
beyed, 26. 

Deep  exercises  of  spirit  by,  and  experience  of  forgiveness,  27- 
30. 

First  appearance  of,  in  the  ministry,  31. 

Extracts  from  diary  of,  32. 

Accompanies  her  father  on  a  religious  visit  in  Ohio,  40. 

Attends  Indiana  Yearly  Meeting  and  some  meetings  belonging 
thereto,  40. 

Remarks  upon  conflicting  sentiments  respecting  the  use  of  pro- 
ducts of  slave  labor,  45. 

Extracts  from  diary  of,  47. 

Attends  Ohio  Yearly  Meeting  in  1844,  51. 

Attends  a  neighboring  Monthly  Meeting,  53. 

Remarks  of,  on  the  prevalence  of  the  erysipelas  fever,  54. 

Exercises  of,  in  regard  to  the  Society  of  Friends,  and  individ- 
uals, 56. 

Obtains  a  Minute  to  visit  meetings  in  Stillwater  and  Short 
Creek  Quarterly  Meetings,  64. 

Comments  upon  the  performance  of  this  visit,  76. 

Memoranda  by,  of  deep  conflicts  of  spirit,  77. 

Visits  families  belonging  to  her  own  Monthly  Meeting,  81,  90. 

Visits  families  not  members  of  our  religious  Society,  84,  90. 

Deep  conflicts  of  spirit,  91. 

Exercises  of,  respecting  gold  hunting  in  California,  100. 

Engagements  in  the  ministry,  101. 

Visits  meetings  in  Salem  and  Springfield  Quarters,  Ohio,  106. 

Advice  of  a  dying  man  to,  118. 

Visits  meetings  of  Pennsville  Quarterly  Meeting,  Ohio,  133. 

Bears  a  testimony  against  music,  137. 

Visits  meetings  in  Stillwater  Quarterly  Meeting,  and  attends 
appointed  meetings,  138. 

Remarks  of,  on  attending  the  Yearly  Meeting  of  ministers  and 
elders,  148. 

Obtains  a  Minute  for  religious  service  in  her  own  Quarterly 
Meeting,  149. 

Close  exercises  of,  respecting  individuals,  151,  153. 

Visits  families  in  the  neighborhood  of  Guernsey,  Ohio,  154. 


INDEX.  399 

Branson,  Ann.  Has  very  exercising  religious  service  in  a  family, 
155.. 

Account  by,  of  her  prospect  in  1833  of  a  great  declension 
among  Friends,  and  a  gathering  to  the  Society  of  faithful 
members,  156. 

Visits  meetings  in  Stillwater  Quarterly  Meeting,  157. 

Visits  meetings  and  families  in  the  limits  of  Short  Creek  Quar- 
terly Meeting,  158. 

Testimony  of,  in  1861,  respecting  the  work  of  the  Lord  in  this 
people  and  nation,  163. 

Interview  with  a  young  man  who  had  enlisted  in  the  army, 
164. 

Notice  of  the  death  of  the  above-mentioned  man,  and  conflicts 
of  spirit  connected  therewith,  165. 

Deep  exercises  of,  166. 

Returns  from  religious  engagements  in  Guernsey,  169. 

Attends  an  appointed  meeting  at  Georgetown,  170. 

Exercising  religious  interviews  in  families,  171,  172. 

Distress  of,  in  consequence  of  the  civil  war,  and  exercises  re- 
specting the  unlawfulness  of  war  under  the  gospel  dispensa- 
tion, 173,  174,  175,  176. 

Attends  meetings  in  and  near  Harrisville,  176. 

Has  an  interview  with  two  desponding  persons,  184,  185. 

Visits  meetings  in  Salem  and  Springfield  Quarterly  Meetings, 
186. 

Addresses  an  individual  who  had  been  tempted  to  take  his 
own  life,  187. 

Neglects  an  apprehended  duty  at  the  town  of  Barnesville,  193. 

Acknowledgments  of,  for  other  neglects  of  duty,  195,  197. 

Observations  on  searching  exercises  of  spirit  in  certain  fami- 
lies, 199. 

Obtains  a  Minute  to  visit  Philadelphia  Yearly  Meeting,  &c., 
under  great  bodily  weakness,  205. 

Visits  Philadelphia  Yearly  Meeting  and  some  meetings  com- 
posing it,  207-252. 

Exercises  of  mind  recorded  upon  a  sick-bed  at  her  own  home, 
252. 

Interview  with  two  individuals  concerned  in  a  recent  separa- 
tion from  Friends  in  Ohio,  254. 


400  INDEX. 

Branson,  Ann.  Notice  of  interviews  with  other  individuals,  257, 
258,  259. 

Leaves  home  to  visit  those  professing  with  Friends  in  some  of 
the  Western  States,  259. 

Deep  trials  in  and  near  Richmond,  Indiana,  259. 

Visits  in  the  neighborhood  of  Spiceland,  Indiana,  262. 

Bears  a  testimony  against  the  doings  of  Indiana  Yearly  Meet- 
ing, 269.  - 

Interviews  with  individuals  in  and  near  Indianapolis,  271. 

Remarks  on  unsound  doctrines  of  Joseph  John  Gurney,  272. 

Interviews  with  individuals  in  and  near  Plainfield,  Ind.,  273. 

Attends  meetings  in  Cedar  Co.,  Iowa,  275. 

Visits  Friends  in  Keokuk  Co.,  Warren  Co.,  Iowa,  &c.,  277. 

Attends  meetings  and  visits  Friends,  &c.,  in  Linn  Co.,  Iowa, 
283. 

Visits  the  families  of  Hickory  Grove  Monthly  Meeting,  Iowa, 
285. 

Attends  Hickory  Grove  Quarterly  Meeting,  287. 

Is  present  at  the  Yearly  Meeting  of  Ohio  under  great  weak- 
ness, 290. 

Attends  Salem  and  Springfield  Quarterly  Meetings,  290. 

Attends  two  appointed  meetings  near  Guernsey,  293. 

Exercises  of  mind  on  account  of  herself  and  others,  293. 

Has  an  appointed  meeting  at  St.  Clairsville,  296. 

Labors  of,  in  the  ministry,  at  and  near  home,  298. 

Visits  prisoners  in  the  jail  of  Belmont  Co.,  300. 

Expresses  to  the  sheriff  the  views  of  Friends  in  regard  to  capi- 
tal punishment,  302. 

Visits  Springfield  Quarterly  Meeting  under  appointment  of  the 
Yearly  Meeting,  303. 

Passes  through  great  distress  of  mind  on  account  of  the  luke- 
warmness  and  indifferency  of  many,  304. 

Exercises  at  and  near  home,  307. 

Remarks  upon  attending  Ohio  Yearly  Meeting,  309. 

Has  religious  service  at  Concord,  Ohio,  311. 

Remarks  on  the  death  and  religious  character  of  Joseph  Hob- 
son,  312. 

Religious  engagements  and  exercises  of,  near  home,  314. 


INDEX.  401 

Branson,  Ann.  Enters  upon  religious  service  in  Pennsville  and 
Short  Creek  Quarterly  Meetings,  320. 

Engages  in  a  visit  to  families  in  and  near  Flushing,  321. 

Visits  families  in  and  near  Guernsey,  and  appoints  meetings, 
322. 

Visits  families  at  Harrisville,  Smithfield  and  Concord,  323. 

Exercises  and  incidents  connected  with  the  above-mentioned 
visit,  325. 

Attends  Salem  Quarterly  Meeting,  meetings  composing  it,  &c., 
330. 

Encouraging  prospect  of,  in  relation  to  the  Society  of  Friends, 
332. 

Distress  of,  on  account  of  unfaithfulness  among  many,  339. 

Remarks  after  attending  the  sittings  of  Ohio  Yearly  Meeting, 
340. 

Religious  engagements  at  and  near  home,  341. 

Encouragement  administered  to,  by  her  cousin,  Joseph  Bran- 
son, on  his  death-bed,  343. 

Exercise  of,  in  the  Yearly  Meeting  of  1881,  in  regard  to  our 
testimony  to  silent  worship,  346. 

Exercise  of,  in  the  Yearly  Meeting  of  1882,  respecting  the  min- 
istry, 349. 

Remarks  on  the  state  of  the  Society  on  returning  from  a  re- 
ligious visit  to  Friends  and  others  in  the  West,  351. 

Remarks  on  returning  from  a  religious  visit  to  the  meetings  of 
Stillwater,  Pennsville  and  Salem  Quarterly  Meetings,  354. 

Exercises  of  mind  on  behalf  of  the  Society  of  Friends,  356. 

Pays  a  visit  to  Hannah  Warrington,  of  Moorestown,  N.  J.,  and 
attends  meetings  there,  358. 

Visits  the  meetings  of  Canada  Yearly  Meeting,  361. 

Religious  labors  at  and  near  home,  363. 

Remarks  after  attending  the  Western  Yearly  Meeting,  366. 

Visits  New  England  Yearly  Meeting  (Smaller  Body),  369. 

Attends  meetings  in  Philadelphia  on  her  return  home,  372. 

Remarks  in  reference  to  the  separation  in  Ohio  Yearly  Meet- 
ing in  1854,  382. 

Memoranda  made  while  confined  to  the  house  by  sickness,  384. 

Returns  from  a  visit  to  the  meetings  of  Salem  Quarterly  Meet- 
ing, &c.,  385. 


402  INDEX. 

Branson,  Ann.     Notice  of  religious  exercises  at  and  near  home,  386. 

Memoranda  of,  made  in  great  bodily  weakness,  393. 

Death  of,  395. 
Branson,  Asa,  27,  139,  259,  262,  264,  271,  274,  275,  284,  290,  314,  316. 

Benjamin,  362. 

Deborah,  21,  53. 

Isaac  and  Sarah,  277. 

Isaiah,  259,  289,  361. 

Jacob  (father  of  Ann  Branson),  9. 

Remarks  on  the  character  of,  10,  69,  113,  345. 

Letter  of  Ann  Branson  to,  42,  43. 

Death  of,  54. 

Jacob  (brother  of  Ann  Branson),  186,  288,  303. 

Remarks  on  the  death  and  character  of,  291. 

Joseph,  321,  343. 

Juliann  H.,  395. 

Lydia,  14,  36,  90. 

Rebecca  (mother  of  Ann  Branson),  9. 

Remarks  on  the  character  of,  10. 

The  death  of,  38,  306. 

Rebecca  S.,  207,  330. 

Samuel,  353. 

William,  286. 
Brantingham,  John,  334. 

Margaret,  107,  334. 
Briggs,  Job,  281. 
Brooks,  Deborah,  227. 
Bufkin,  John,  267. 

Carpenter.     Lukewarmness  in  spiritual  things  in  a,  and  warning 
therefrom,  20. 

William,  244. 
Clendenon,  Amy,  278. 
Coffin,  Elijah,  270. 
Comfort,  Martha  R.,  376. 
Comly,  Dr.,  323. 
Conrow,  David,  254. 

Ruth,  319. 


INDEX.  403 

Cope,  Jonathan,  239. 

Maria,  358. 

Morris,  223. 

Samuel,  220. 
Crew,  Aquila,  283. 

Dancing.    Happy  effects  of  faithfulness  of  a  young  woman  to  her  con- 
victions against,  24. 
Darnell,  David,  240. 
Davis,  Clarkson,  267. 
Dewsbury,  William,  374. 
Dixon,  Samuel,  120. 
Doudna,  James,  283. 

Edgerton,  Anna,  53. 

Anna,  330. 

Joseph,  43,  123,  124,  189,  206,  267. 

Thomas,  53. 

Walter,  267. 

Elkinton,  Joseph  S.,  244,  369,  376. 
Ellis,  Miriam.     Letter  of  Ann  Branson  to,  36. 

Visited  by  Ann  Branson,  96. 

Ann  Branson  attends  the  funeral  of,  98. 

Notice  of  an  account  by,  of  her  mother  Abigail  Branson,  305. 
Ellyson,  Robert,  124. 
Embree,  Joseph,  285. 
Emmons,  Mary,  282. 

Thomas,  282,  283. 

Evans,  Jonathan.     Testimony  of,  against  the  writings  of  J.  J.  Gur- 
ney,  16. 

Josiah,  242. 

Fawcett,  M.  J.,  130,  189,  191. 

Simeon,  123. 

William,  108. 

Fisher,  William  and  Ruth,  336,  338. 
Foster,  Anna  A.,  369. 

Ethan,  369. 
Friends.     The  plain  dress  of,  an  hedge  against  many  temptations,  21. 

Remarks  in  1846  on  the  condition  of  the  Society  of,  66,  70, 75. 


404  INDEX. 

Friends.  Account  by  Ann  Branson  of  her  prospect,  in  1833,  of  a 
great  declension  among,  and  subsequent  gathering  to  the 
principles  of,  156. 

Brief  allusion  to  the  future  condition  of  the  Society  of,  245, 
332,  377. 

Remarks  on  the  greatest  enemies  to  the  Society  of,  333. 

Garrett,  Aaron,  239. 

David,  235. 

Gibbons,  Hannah,  217,  232. 
Gregg,  Caleb,  284. 
Gurney,  Joseph  John.     Visit  of,  to  America,  16. 

Unsound  views  of,  16,  217,  272,  274,  377. 

Testimony  of  Thomas  Shillitoe  concerning  the  effects  of,  in 
the  Society  of  Friends,  16,  228,  270,  274. 

Notice  of  Memorial  concerning,  issued  by  London  Yearly 
Meeting,  17. 

Testimony  against  the  unsound  writings  of,  69. 

The  effects  of  the  unsound  views  of,  228,  270,  274. 

Hadley,  William,  271. 
Hale,  Judge,  297. 
Hall,  Abigail,  236. 

Deborah,  325. 

Isaac,  236,  237. 

Josiah,  325. 

Mary  T.,  325. 

N.,  159. 

Robert,  294. 

William,  183,  325. 
Hampton,  William,  283. 
Harvey,  Cyrus  W.,  382. 

Heald,  Abner.  Testimony  of,  against  the  writings  of  Joseph  John 
Gurney,  16. 

Abner,  108, 121. 

J.,  120. 

Sina,  108, 121. 

William,  109. 
Henley,  Henry,  269,  271. 

Jabez,  264. 


INDEX.  405 

Heston,  David,  337, 338. 

Hicks,  Elias.    Remarks  on  the  deistical  doctrines  of,  234,  377. 

Hill,  Thomas,  271. 

Hoag,  Nathan,  114. 

Hobbs,  Barnabas  C.,  260. 

Wilson,  270. 
Hobson,  Joseph,  170,  171,  292. 

Remarks  on  the  death  and  character  of,  312. 

Stephen,  365. 
Hoge,  John,  278,  280. 

Lydia,  278. 
Holloway,  Asa,  273. 

David,  264. 

Jacob,  330,  361,  369,  376. 

Joseph,  278. 

Martha,  40. 

K.,  265. 

Robert,  265,  278. 

William  W.,  338. 
Hosier,  Maria,  172. 

Howgill,  Francis.     Encouraging  and  warning  prophecies  of,  respect- 
ing Friends,  232,  332. 
Hoyle,  Benjamin,  382. 

Lindley,  283. 
Hunt,  Asa,  271,  273. 

Ireland.     Remarks  of  Ann  Branson  in  1847,  on  the  famine  in,  68. 

Jenkins,  George  K.,  177. 
Johnson,  Micajah,  170,  199. 

William,  269,  270, 271. 
Jones,  Mary,  26. 

Kirk,  William,  173,  174. 
Kite,  Hannah,  248. 

Dr.  John,  330,  331. 

Mary,  95. 

Nathan,  248,  250. 

Thomas,  353. 

Remarks^on  a  testimony  of,  in  Ohio  Yearly  Meeting,  354. 


406  INDEX. 

Koll,  Daniel,  188, 254. 

Ladd,  Benjamin  W.,  274. 
Lee,  John,  277. 
Leeds,  Elizabeth,  331. 
Leech,  William,  111. 
Lewis,  Enoch,  275. 
Louis  IX.,  King  of  France,  302. 
Lukens,  Solomon,  226. 
Lupton,  Henry,  192. 

Sarah,  331. 
Lynch,  J.,  123. 

Malin,  George,  236. 
Maulsbury,  Benjamin,  107. 
Maule,  Benjamin,  226. 
Maule,  Joshua,  390. 
Miller,  Eobert,  132. 

Ministry.    On  the  qualification  for,  and  the  work  of  the,  56,  58,  223. 
266,  349,  354. 

Exercises  of  Ann  Branson  in  regard  to  a  spurious,  66,  88, 147. 

Remarks  in  reference  to  a  paid,  314. 
Mitchell,  Hannah,  318. 

Isaac,  133,  201,  207,  341. 
Moore,  C.  and  S.,  130. 
Music.    A  testimony  borne  by  Ann  Branson  against,  137,  251. 

Penn,  William,  223,  340,  367. 

Phillips,  Isaac,  220. 

Pitfield,  Elizabeth,  249. 

Plummer,  Jane,  273,  274,  275. 

Preservation  of  Samuel  Smith  and  others  at  Coshocton,  Ohio,  41. 

Prey,  Enos,  271, 272. 

Pritchard,  Samuel,  268,  269. 

Providential  deliverance  from  injury  by  fire,  23. 

Ratcliff,  Mildred,  105,  157. 

Resurrection  of  the  body.    Unsound  views  respecting  the,  preached 
by  Elisha  Bates,  13. 


INDEX.  407 

Roberts,  Henry,  241. 

Jacob,  239. 

Jesse,  361. 

Lydia,  376. 

Phebe,  376. 

Phebe  W.,  220,  239. 
Robson,  Elizabeth,  26. 

Sanctification  must  precede  justification,  57. 
Scattergood,  Elizabeth,  217,  220. 

Joseph  and  Elizabeth,  222. 

William,  220. 

Thomas.    Comments  on  the  deep  religious  experiences  of,  50, 

61,  63, 103. 

Sears,  Abigail,  186,  201,  259,  281,  290,  321,  361,  369,  376. 
Sharp,  William  Henry,  275,  288. 
Sharpless,  Aaron,  233,  234. 

Susanna  R,  233. 
Sheppard,  Clarkson,  244. 
Shillitoe,  Thomas.    Testimony  of,  against  the  unsound  doctrines  of 

J.  J.  Gurney,  16,  228. 
Sidwell,  Elizabeth,  328. 
Smith,  Edith,  323,  324,  325,  326. 

Elisha,  281. 

Elizabeth,  207. 

Elizabeth,  356. 

Evan,  280. 

John  W.,  170,  323,  324,  325,  326. 

Nathan,  172. 

Robert,  146. 

Samuel,  40, 356. 
Snowdon,  Joseph,  242. 
Spencer,  John,  264. 
Stanley,  J.  H.,  124. 
Steer,  Israel  and  Rebecca,  311. 
Stokes,  Carleton  P.,  244. 
Stratton,  Barclay,  188. 

Joseph,  187,  331. 

Rachel,  331. 


408  INDEX. 

Terrell,  Clark,  282. 
Thomas,  Enoch,  301. 
Thomas,  John,  275,  277,  285. 

Miriam,  275. 

Mary,  162. 

Updegraff,  Eebecca,  114. 

Walker,  Lewis,  131,  188. 

Joseph,  339. 

Walton,  Joseph,  243,  244,  251,  337,  338. 
Warren,  Job,  124. 
Warrington,  Hannah,  241,  243,  358,  376,  377. 

Nathan,  186,  282. 
Wilbur,  John,  370. 
Williams,  Charles,  229. 

Jason  and  Abigail,  262. 
Wilson,  E.,  290. 

Joseph,  292. 

Remarks  on  the  death  and  character  of,  316. 

Martha  A.,  363. 
Wistar,  Caspar,  248. 

Martha,  244,  248. 
Wood,  Daniel,  43. 

John,  Sr.,  43,  44,  45. 
Woolman,  Aaron,  127. 
Wright,  Hannah,  273. 

Eebecca,  133. 

William,  290,  292. 

Yarnall,  Peter,  235. 

Yearly  Meeting,  Indiana.     Remarks  on  the  acknowledgment  by,  of 

all  the  doctrines  of  Joseph  John  Gurney,  269,  271. 
London.    Unsound  doctrines  of  J.  J.  Gurney,  &c.,  sanctioned 

by,  17. 

New  England.     Remarks  in  reference  to,  348. 
Ohio.     "Appeal  for  the  Ancient  Doctrines,"  adopted  by,  17. 

Remarks  on  the  separation  from,  in  1854,  382. 
Philadelphia.     Notice  of  "  Appeal  for  the  Ancient  Doctrines," 

issued  by,  17. 


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